Someone who has regularly abused cocaine is at risk of experiencing these uncomfortable and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Read More
Cocaine is a substance derived from the leaves of the coca plant. Illicit forms of the substance include a white powder as well as a freebase, crystalline solid known as crack cocaine.1,2 The various forms of the drug can be smoked, snorted, and injected.1,2 Though pharmaceutical cocaine (cocaine hydrochloride solution) has historically been used as a local anesthetic and vasoconstrictor during certain surgical procedures, illicit supplies of the drug and its prevalent abuse far outweigh such legitimate medical uses.3 Since cocaine has a high abuse potential but some medical use, the substance is listed as a Schedule II controlled substance.1,3
At certain doses, cocaine use is associated with a pronounced sense of euphoria. It’s interaction with our brain’s reward system leads to a powerful reinforcement of use that contributes to its widespread abuse across a number of demographics.1,2 According to the 2016 national Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), roughly 1.9 million people aged 12 or older were current users of cocaine.4 The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that 3.9% of 12th graders have abused cocaine at some point in their lives.2
“Consistent use of this substance often leads to significant physiological dependence and addiction development.”
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Consistent use of this substance often leads to significant physiological dependence and addiction development.5 Someone addicted to cocaine is at risk of many unwanted physical and mental health effects and decreased well-being.1,2 As the negative health effects accumulate, the person may wish to quit using; however, the associated physiological cocaine dependence can make this process challenging. Not only will the individual likely encounter strong cravings for more cocaine, but they may also have to endure a period of discomfort and distress.3,4 Called acute cocaine withdrawal, the effects associated with abruptly quitting cocaine, though different for each person, can be quite unpleasant, especially without proper care.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of cocaine abuse can help you get your loved one quality detox and treatment. Potential, observable signs and symptoms of abuse include the following:1,2,3
Bursts of energy followed by “crashes” that include depression, anxiety, irritability, and other negative emotions may indicate cocaine abuse, especially when they occur together with the other symptoms. When coming down from a cocaine high, some users may experience suicidal thoughts or exhibit suicidal behaviors.6,7
Though the acute cocaine withdrawal syndrome may present differently amongst individuals, many people experience more psychological or emotional issues rather than severe physical symptoms. During detoxification, someone may experience the following: 2,7
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Someone who has regularly abused cocaine is at risk of experiencing these uncomfortable and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Read MoreThe detoxification process and the precise timeline for accompanying withdrawal is somewhat unpredictable depending on many individual differences related to cocaine abuse.8 Cocaine withdrawal symptoms will often emerge within 24 hours after last use and continue for between 3 and 5 days, although some symptoms may persist for weeks.6,7
One model of cocaine detox separates the process into three phases:10
Chronic cocaine users may also experience what’s known as a post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) that persists long after their last use. PAWS may include protracted withdrawal symptoms like poor impulse control and difficulty regulating emotions.11
Though cocaine withdrawal may not pose the same pronounced physical risks as acute alcohol or sedative withdrawal, there are some potential complications to be aware of. The most serious hazards of cocaine detox include the following:2,7
Treatment will focus on monitoring symptoms and providing a safe environment. To safely and comfortably detox and avoid the unwanted effects of cocaine withdrawal, professional detox options will be valuable tools. There are no medications specifically approved for the treatment of cocaine withdrawal, so treatment will focus on monitoring symptoms and providing a safe environment to limit harm to self and others.7
There are no medications specifically approved for the treatment of cocaine withdrawal, so treatment will focus on monitoring symptoms and providing a safe environment to limit harm to self and others.
Detox may take place in a variety of treatment settings including the following:10
Detox provides a solid foundation for recovery, but it is not a substitute for substance abuse treatment.10 Those interested in long-term recovery and abstinence from cocaine abuse will benefit from some form of professional addiction treatment, whether it be an inpatient, luxury, executive, or outpatient program.