Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant with a long history of abuse that generally leads to addiction. There are many severe side effects of cocaine addiction. This chronic, relapsing brain disease is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite negative consequences that destroy lives and relationships. Prairie Recovery cocaine addiction treatment can help you regain control of your life.
What Is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a white, crystalline drug that usually comes in powder or crystal, generally snorted but can also be smoked or injected. Cocaine is a stimulant that increases levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain and triggers feelings of euphoria. Its effects are felt almost immediately after taking the drug, and it lasts for about 15-30 mins, depending on how it was ingested.
Cocaine was first isolated from coca leaves in 1855. It became popular as a drug in the early 1900s and was used to treat various medical conditions. However, its addictive potential was soon recognized, and its use was eventually restricted.
Cocaine is now a Schedule II drug, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse and addiction but can also be used for medical purposes. It is illegal in the United States and most other countries.
Cocaine Side Effects
Cocaine abuse can lead to several physical and mental health problems. Short-term cocaine side effects include:
- Anxiety
- Dilated pupils
- Euphoria
- Restlessness
- Paranoia
- Delusions
- Hallucinations
- Agitation
- Irritability
- Muscle twitches
- Increased heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Dilated pupils
And the list of harmful side effects goes on.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Abuse?
Cocaine addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite negative consequences.
One of the common long-term effects of cocaine abuse is that people who abuse cocaine often develop tolerance, meaning they need to take larger and larger doses to get the same effects. This can lead to dependence when people feel they need to take cocaine to feel normal.
Cocaine side effects can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening. The long-term effects of cocaine abuse can include:
- Permanent damage to blood vessels
- Heart failure
- Stroke
- Kidney/liver failure
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Malnutrition/Weight loss
- Tremors
- Paranoia
- Psychosis
- Depression
- Violence
- Suicidal thoughts
- Cocaine-induced psychosis
- Nasal perforation is known as “cocaine nose”
- Overdose or death
The professionals at Prairie Recovery Center are here to help you navigate the side effects of cocaine abuse. Reach out today.
Prairie Recovery Center Cocaine Addiction Treatment Programs
Cocaine addiction is a serious, life-threatening disease that requires professional treatment. If you or someone you love is struggling with cocaine addiction, don’t wait to get help. At Prairie Recovery, we can help you find the right treatment program to fit your needs and start you on the road to regaining a healthy and happy life. Here are some of our cocaine addiction treatment programs:
Detoxification
The first step in cocaine addiction treatment is detoxification or the process of ridding the body of the drug. This can be done through a tapering program in which the person slowly reduces their cocaine intake over time. It can also be done through a more sudden method, such as going “cold turkey,” during which the person can experience many uncomfortable side effects of cocaine. We respect you and will create a plan that works best for you.
Therapy
Therapy can be done in an individual or group setting and can last for weeks or months. It generally focuses on the underlying causes of addiction and helps the person develop healthy coping mechanisms and a support system to maintain sobriety. Our substance abuse treatment may include:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Self-help support groups such as 12-step programs
- Trauma therapy
- Relapse prevention strategies
Medication
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to cocaine addiction treatment, and medication may be necessary for some people. Medication can manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and treat underlying mental health conditions.
We know the importance of working with a medical professional to find the right medication and dosage. Our medical professional team is specialized and trained to treat you as a whole.
Get Started With Cocaine Addiction Treatment at Prairie Recovery Center
Cocaine addiction is a serious problem that requires professional treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with cocaine addiction, don’t wait to get help. Prairie Recovery Center offers a variety of cocaine addiction treatment programs that can help you or your loved one get on the road to recovery. Call us today at [Direct].