Cocaine is a very dangerous and highly addictive drug. According to the 2006 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 35.3 million Americans ages 12 and up have used crack at some point in their lives. Users say it provides a high level of alertness and energy. In its powder form, it can be snorted or injected, or smoked. When cocaine powder is processed or "cooked" into a solid, it is called crack and can be smoked or taken intravenously. There is little to no difference in the two's chemical structure, and both are often laced with other substances ranging from laxatives to fentanyl.
Whether someone is using cocaine or crack, it is doesn't decrease the addictive nature of cocaine. The drug produces an intense euphoric feeling, and people will continue using to chase the pleasurable feelings produced by the drug. While not considered physically addictive, people who stop using cocaine report sleep changes and fatigue.
Cocaine Withdrawal Signs & Symptoms
When someone stops using drugs and/or alcohol, there is a range of physical and mental symptoms that will occur; this process is called withdrawal. The specific symptoms will depend on what substance was being used. For example, alcohol withdrawal can produce hallucinations, and heroin can produce nausea and vomiting. Cocaine withdrawal may carry some risks and often includes:
Some signs and symptoms of cocaine withdrawal include:
Anxiety
Irritability
Lack of motivation and energy
Depression
Mood changes
Dysphoria
Paranoia
Cravings
Difficulty concentrating
Slowed thinking
Suicidal thoughts/actions
Increased appetite
What is the timeline for cocaine withdrawal symptoms?
Cocaine stays in a person's system for a very short period. Symptoms of withdrawal, however, will appear quickly after last use. The intensity of symptoms depends on how often a person uses crack and/or cocaine.
Withdrawal is a process and is divided into three phases to this process.
The Crash: This cocaine withdrawal phase usually happens between a few hours and a few days of a person's last use. Many people experience extreme depression and exhaustion, along with irritability and restlessness. Some may even experience suicidal thoughts during this phase alone.
Continued Withdrawal: During this phase, a person's ability to function and mood will improve because dopamine levels are normalizing. However, the person may report feeling unable to feel any pleasure or just bored or feel a lack of energy during this phase. Cravings may continue for up to 10 weeks. People should be vigilant as many relapse during the continued withdrawal phase.
Extinction: This phase generally lasts up to six months. Users may experience intense cravings during this time that can come and go sporadically.
The most intense withdrawal symptoms usually last one and two weeks. However, the intensity and the duration of the withdrawal itself will be different for each person. Those who had a mild to moderate cocaine use pattern can expect withdrawal symptoms to decrease in no more than 18 hours. For those who have used cocaine heavily, they usually experience peak symptoms within two to four days.
Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms Remedies & Tips
There are no medications that have been developed or specifically approved for cocaine withdrawal symptoms. However, there are particular medications like modafinil, which may have some potential in helping with some associated discomfort from the withdrawal phases. Some antidepressants have also shown promise in relieving symptoms. For those who stop using at home, Benadryl may help with sleeplessness.
What does the cocaine detox process consist of?
Detox helps with the physical aspects of recovery; treatment addresses the emotional and mental states behind addiction. There are various ways detox can occur, whether in a short-term detox only facility or a long-term rehab facility where people transition into treatment at the same facility. While some may choose to detox at home, the structure and medical care offered at an inpatient detox facility can ensure the safest possible detox to start one's recovery journey.
Cocaine detox programs include these common goals:
Relapse prevention
Being able to create support and structure
Withdrawal symptom monitoring
Education on substance abuse
The ability to establish sobriety
Recognizing any psychological issues
Is cocaine detox necessary?
Detox from cocaine or crack is necessary for treatment to begin. Some people quit at home with their doctor's aid, and others are admitted to a treatment facility. We believe the safest choice for detox is to be admitted as an inpatient. All of your symptoms can be monitored around the clock and addressed quickly. Our treatment model provides rehab after detox, as this evidence-based practice appears to result in higher success rates for clients. Dignity Healing offers preeminent cocaine detox treatment for people with cocaine use disorder and are looking to change their lives. Are you or a loved one ready to make a change? We are here for you.