Cocaine, also known as coke, is an illegal substance that can be found on the streets. Individuals who become addicted to cocaine have a hard time quitting due to both a psychological and physical addiction to the effects of cocaine. Some individuals use cocaine to create a drug known as crack, which is a more harmful version of the drug. A crack is widely considered to be stronger and more addictive than a coke addiction.
Recovering from cocaine or crack addiction can be challenging, but it is possible. The Wellness Retreat Recovery Center offers an advanced 12-step optional holistic approach to crack and coke addiction rehabilitation. Don’t let an addiction ruin your life. Visit our recovery center to learn about some of our effective treatments, such as Drug Detox, Addiction Therapy, and Aftercare.
The Effects of Cocaine/Crack
Cocaine and crack both have short-lasting effects, however, the users undergo a euphoric like experience. Substance abusers will often ingest these drugs; whether it be through snorting, smoking, or injection, to get high. The following symptoms are some of the short-term effects of Cocaine and crack use.
- Increased heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Sweating
- Erratic behavior
- Tremors
- Dilated pupils
- Vertigo
- Paranoia
- Muscle twitches
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Loss of appetite
Typically, users will report a boost in their confidence and ego. However, they also demonstrate bizarre and even violent behavior. The ‘high’ produced by cocaine/crack can often lead individuals to commit crimes. After the effects of the drug wear off, individuals will typically experience a depressive state. Users will progressively take larger amounts of the drug to avoid this depressive state, but it is inevitable.
Crack and Coke Addiction
Individuals suffering from coke addiction will experience psychological cravings to the euphoric effects of the drug. The cravings for cocaine will sometimes be the result of a physical dependency, however, the dependency is also a result of psychological need. Nonetheless, a coke addiction should not be treated in the same that an addiction to crack is treated. Crack is highly addictive, more so than cocaine, so users can expect intense and often debilitating cravings. Here are some of the withdrawal symptoms experienced by users of both cocaine and crack:
- Intense sweating
- Confusion
- Paranoia
- Intense exhaustion
- Rapid weight loss
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Numbness, or lack of emotion
- Migraines
The withdrawal symptoms are too severe for an individual to handle on his/her own. Without medical supervision, users who attempt to quit cold turkey may relapse. Long-term abuse of cocaine/crack can lead to life-threatening complications, such as heart failure, seizures, stroke, psychosis, Rhabdomyolysis and liver failure.
Cocaine/Crack Treatment and Rehabilitation
Withdrawal symptoms from cocaine/crack can last for several weeks. So, to detox from a coke addiction, individuals will need to focus on both psychological and physical treatments by seeking help at a rehabilitation center. These centers will help patients work through many of their withdrawal symptoms. To detox from crack, physicians will typically develop certain strategies that fit each individual’s medical history and body chemistry. Sadly, a medication doesn’t currently exist that successfully helps individuals alleviate their cravings for crack. Doctors give patients medications that assist with some of the withdrawal symptoms, but not all of them.
Patients recovering from either cocaine/crack substance abuse will be advised to attend group therapy sessions and addiction therapy. These treatments will help the patient understand the underlying psychological reason for their addictive behavior. For patients currently suffering from an addiction to either cocaine or crack, give The Wellness Retreat Recovery Center a call at 888-821-0238. We can recommend a treatment that fits the personal needs of every individual.
