Cocaine Addiction | Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Before the current opioid epidemic, the United States faced a cocaine crisis in the 1980s and ’90s. Movies like Scarface and The Wolf of Wall Street highlighted the impact of the powerful stimulant. Although overshadowed by the opioid crisis, cocaine remains a significant problem.

Cocaine was once used as a medicine and is still classified as a Schedule II drug, meaning it’s addictive but has some accepted medical uses.

While other medications have largely replaced cocaine for medical purposes, it is still widely used as a recreational drug. Misuse of cocaine can lead to physical dependence and addiction, resulting in various physical and psychological problems, withdrawal symptoms, and overdose. However, with the right help, addiction can be treated.

If you or someone you know may have a substance use disorder related to cocaine, it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of addiction. This awareness can help seek the necessary treatment before experiencing more severe consequences. It’s essential to know that even severe cocaine addiction can be treated.

What is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug primarily used as an illicit recreational substance. It was once more widely used as a medication for various ailments, from toothaches to a local anesthetic for eye surgery. However, it’s rarely used for medical purposes today. The drug works by blocking the reuptake of dopamine in the nervous system. That means, instead of removing and recycling excess dopamine from your system, cocaine leaves it to bind to more receptors, causing feelings of excitement, power, and increased energy.

However, brain chemicals like dopamine are closely related to the brain’s reward response, and the reward center of the brain is the primary target of addiction. When your brain mistakes cocaine use for normal healthy, rewarding activities, it can alter your reward center into encouraging compulsive cocaine use.

Signs and Symptoms of Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine addiction is a disease that typically comes after some signs and symptoms. However, if you’re abusing cocaine, a substance abuse disorder can develop quickly, so it’s critical to seek help as soon as possible. That being said, even severe substance use disorders can be treated.

The first sign that cocaine use is turning into a disorder is a growing tolerance to your usual dose. If you’ve used cocaine a few times and then noticed that your regular effective dose seems to have less of an effect on you, you may be developing a tolerance. This means that your brain and nervous system are adapting to the cocaine in your system. If you keep using cocaine or increase your dose, you may become chemically dependent or cause changes in the brain.

Dependence is a phenomenon that happens when your brain starts to integrate cocaine into your balanced brain chemistry. In other words, instead of relying on your naturally occurring brain chemicals, it will start to depend on cocaine to facilitate normal brain function. That means quitting cocaine will cause uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, which can include:

Depression
Irritability
Agitation
Fatigue
General discomfort
Sleep disturbances
Lethargy

Get Immediate Treatment Help.

(844) 326-4514

I would prefer to chat online

A substance use disorder becomes an addiction when you start using the drug compulsively. Cocaine is often used for recreation in party settings. But when you become addicted, you may stop using it for fun or recreation and start using it out of a feeling of necessity. Eventually, drug use gets out of control, and you may continue to use even if the drug causes serious consequences.

Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Addiction

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) relays that cocaine exposure causes the brain to adapt, and the reward pathways become less sensitive to natural reinforcers. On that same note, the circuits involved in cocaine addiction become increasingly sensitive, which leads to increased displeasure and negative moods when someone is not using the substance.

The specific routes of cocaine administration produce adverse effects as well. Snorting cocaine can cause long-term effects that include:

Loss of sense of smell
Nosebleeds
Swallowing difficulties
Hoarseness of the voice
Chronically inflamed, runny nose
Irritation of the nasal septum

Cocaine can cause damage to many other organs in the body as well. The drug can reduce blood flow in the gastrointestinal tract, which can ultimately cause tears or ulcerations. Chronic cocaine abusers lose their appetite and will experience weight loss and malnourishment.

In addition to the increased risk of seizures or stroke, neurological problems can occur from long-term cocaine use. There are reports of bleeding in the brain and bulges in the walls of cerebral blood vessels. Studies have also shown a wide range of cognitive functions that are impaired, such as:

Sustaining attention
Impulse inhibition
Memory
Making decisions that involve rewards or punishments
Performing motor tasks

What Is Involved In Cocaine Addiction Treatment?

Cocaine addiction treatment is a process that involves medical treatment and psychotherapy with the goal of helping you achieve lifelong sobriety. Addiction is a disease that can be treated with evidence-based treatment and experienced medical professionals, therapists, and clinicians.

When you first enter addiction treatment, you’ll go through a process of intake and assessment that will help your therapist and clinicians find the right treatment options for you. Your health and safety are the first factors to be assessed. If you have pressing medical needs, you’ll need a higher level of care.

I am ready to be sober.

(844) 326-4514

I would prefer to chat online

Medical Detox for Cocaine Addiction

Medical detox is the highest level of care in addiction treatment and involves medically managed care 24 hours a day. The main goal of detox is to get you through the withdrawal period that’s common with many psychoactive drugs as safe and as comfortable as possible.

Drugs may have different effects during withdrawal, depending on the type of drug and how it works in the brain. Stimulants like cocaine affect dopamine and serotonin, which primarily regulate your mood, so withdrawal symptoms are also likely to affect your mood. People going through cocaine withdrawal may feel depressed, apathetic, and sluggish. They also may experience an inability to feel pleasure.

Because cocaine withdrawal isn’t life-threatening or physically dangerous, medical detox might not be necessary to avoid any serious medical complications. However, withdrawal can cause powerful drug cravings that can make it difficult for you to achieve sobriety on your own.

Plus, some cases of withdrawal can lead to deep depression and suicidal thoughts. If you start to have suicidal ideations, it’s vital to recognize that cocaine may have caused a severe chemical imbalance in your brain. Seek professional help immediately.

Medical detox can help people who enter treatment with other medical issues like injuries, diseases, and chronic illnesses.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment is the next level in the continuum of care after medical detox. It can involve medical monitoring or clinically managed care that’s ideal for people who still have high-level medical or psychological needs after detox. Inpatient treatment offers 24-hour care every day, and it can involve medical treatment and psychotherapy.

Residential treatment programs also fall into the inpatient category. A residential program can be ideal for someone in the early stages of treatment who doesn’t have a living environment that will help their recovery. For instance, if you live with an abusive family member or a roommate who still uses drugs, your sobriety may be at risk.

As you progress in treatment, you will eventually be able to live independently, and you may move on to an outpatient program.

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient treatment is divided into two categories: intensive outpatient (IOP) and standard outpatient. Intensive outpatient treatment involves nine hours or more of treatment every week. IOP also encompasses partial hospitalization services, which is the highest level of care you can attend while living independently and can include as much as 12 hours of treatment services every day.

Outpatient treatment involves fewer than nine hours of care every week. It’s an excellent step in the treatment process for people who have completed more intensive programs. It offers a transitional process between intensive treatment and complete independence. As you step into the real world with the responsibility of safeguarding your recovery, you will have the opportunity to bring newly discovered triggers and struggles to individual or group therapy sessions.

Cocaine Abuse Statistics

Between 70% and 80% of the world’s cocaine supply is produced in Colombia, but much of it makes its way to the U.S.
14,556 overdose deaths involved cocaine in 2017.
The U.S. is the biggest consumer of cocaine in the world.

Cocaine Use, Addiction, and Treatment in New Jersey

Cocaine addiction continues to be a significant issue in New Jersey, affecting a wide range of individuals across urban, suburban, and rural areas. Cocaine, a powerful stimulant, is commonly abused due to its euphoric effects, but it also leads to severe health problems and a high risk of addiction. In recent years, New Jersey has seen an increase in crack cocaine use, particularly in lower-income areas, while powder cocaine remains prevalent among young adults and professionals.

Cocaine Use Trends in New Jersey

According to the New Jersey Department of Health, cocaine was involved in nearly 10% of drug-related overdose deaths in the state in recent years.
Crack cocaine is often more accessible in urban centers, while powder cocaine use is more widespread in suburban areas.
Many cases of cocaine abuse in New Jersey involve polydrug use, with individuals often combining cocaine with other substances like heroin or fentanyl, significantly increasing the risk of overdose.

Health Impacts of Cocaine Addiction in New Jersey

The short-term and long-term health effects of cocaine use are severe, contributing to physical, psychological, and social issues. Cocaine addiction in New Jersey leads to:

Cardiovascular problems: Cocaine use increases heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Respiratory issues: Smoking crack cocaine can cause significant damage to the lungs, leading to respiratory failure in severe cases.
Mental health complications: Individuals who abuse cocaine often suffer from anxiety, paranoia, and depression, exacerbating their addiction.

Cocaine use in New Jersey also contributes to social and legal issues, including increased rates of DUI arrests, job loss, and family conflict.

Cocaine Addiction Treatment in New Jersey

At Serenity at Summit’s Union, NJ facility, we offer comprehensive treatment options for individuals struggling with cocaine addiction. The treatment process for cocaine addiction is designed to address both the physical and psychological dependence on the drug, helping individuals regain control of their lives.

Detoxification: While cocaine withdrawal is primarily psychological, individuals still require support during the detox phase to manage intense cravings, fatigue, depression, and anxiety. Our medically supervised detox program helps patients navigate the early stages of withdrawal safely and comfortably.
Inpatient Treatment: After detox, patients often transition to our inpatient treatment program, where they receive 24/7 care and engage in intensive therapy. Our Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) programs help individuals identify and change destructive behaviors associated with cocaine use.
Outpatient Programs: For individuals who have completed inpatient care or require a more flexible approach, our Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) in New Jersey provide ongoing therapy and support while allowing patients to maintain their daily responsibilities.

At Serenity at Summit, we focus on long-term recovery. To help individuals build a strong support network, we offer family therapy, group counseling, and access to support groups like Cocaine Anonymous (CA).

Cocaine Use, Addiction, and Treatment in Massachusetts

Cocaine addiction is also a growing concern in Massachusetts, where rates of use, particularly among young adults, have been on the rise. Cocaine is frequently abused in social settings due to its stimulant effects, but this often leads to long-term addiction and severe health consequences. Additionally, fentanyl-laced cocaine has become increasingly common in Massachusetts, heightening the risk of fatal overdoses.

Cocaine Use Trends in Massachusetts

According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 4.97% of young adults aged 18-25 reported using cocaine in the past year, placing Massachusetts above the national average for cocaine use.
Polydrug use is a significant issue in the state, with many individuals mixing cocaine with opioids like heroin or fentanyl, which can lead to dangerous and often deadly outcomes.
The state has seen an increase in cocaine-related hospital admissions and overdose deaths, particularly in urban areas like Boston and Springfield.

Health Impacts of Cocaine Addiction in Massachusetts

Cocaine addiction in Massachusetts poses a significant risk to both physical and mental health. The stimulant effects of cocaine can cause:

Heart damage: Cocaine use leads to increased blood pressure and heart rate, raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Neurological effects: Long-term cocaine use can result in seizures, headaches, and long-term cognitive impairment.
Mental health disorders: Cocaine use is often associated with mental health issues such as anxiety, paranoia, and depression. Many individuals in Massachusetts who struggle with cocaine addiction also have co-occurring mental health disorders, which require integrated treatment.

Cocaine Addiction Treatment in Massachusetts

At Serenity at Summit’s Haverhill, MA facility, we offer specialized treatment programs to help individuals recover from cocaine addiction. Our multidisciplinary team provides a range of services, including:

Medical Detox: Although cocaine withdrawal does not typically involve life-threatening physical symptoms, the psychological aspects can be intense. During detox, individuals experience severe mood swings, fatigue, depression, and cravings. Our team provides 24-hour support to ensure patients can safely navigate this phase.
Inpatient Treatment: Following detox, individuals can transition to inpatient care for more intensive treatment. Inpatient programs at our Massachusetts facility include individual therapy, group counseling, and holistic treatments like meditation and art therapy to help patients manage cravings and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Outpatient Treatment: For those who do not require inpatient care or as a step down from inpatient treatment, our Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) in Massachusetts offer flexible treatment options. Patients participate in structured therapy sessions, including CBT, Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), and peer support groups, allowing them to continue treatment while managing daily responsibilities.

Our Massachusetts facility also emphasizes dual diagnosis care for individuals who have co-occurring mental health disorders, ensuring that both the addiction and the underlying psychological issues are treated simultaneously.

Opioid Use Disorder Treatment at Serenity At Summit

The team at Serenity at Summit understands that recovery from Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical dependence and psychological aspects of addiction. Our Massachusetts and New Jersey facilities are dedicated to offering personalized, evidence-based care, including Medication-Assisted Treatment, behavioral therapy, and ongoing support.

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, Serenity at Summit is here to help. Our compassionate team is ready to guide you toward long-term recovery.