Types of Addiction
Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine Addiction Treatment
GateHouse is ready to start you on your road to recovery from cocaine addiction. Our approach to treatment is based on proven methodologies and offers comprehensive care and support each step of the way. We take the time and effort to ensure that all clients receive a treatment plan tailored to their needs, with plenty of resources to ensure a sustained recovery. Get in touch today to learn how GateHouse can help.
How Can I Tell If I Need Cocaine Addiction Treatment?
Cocaine rehab is necessary for anyone suffering from the consequences of cocaine but unable to stop using the substance. There is no medical use for cocaine, and the drug classifies as a Schedule II controlled substance with highly addictive capabilities. It is bought illegally on the streets and can warrant severe legal consequences, including up to 20 years in prison. People administer cocaine through nasal inhalation, injection, or smoking. It looks like a white, finely-ground crystal powder often sold in little zip-lock bags.
History of Cocaine
Following its creation, cocaine became popular for “medicinal use,” a theory supported by the medical community with the likes of Sigmund Freud. In 1886, John Pemberton put the coca leaves in his new drink, Coca-Cola. The euphoric and energizing effects popularized Coca-Cola in the early 1900s. By 1912, there were a reported 5,000 cocaine-related deaths in one year and thousands more visiting hospitals. In turn, the substance became illegal in 1922.
The world saw a re-emergence of cocaine in the 1970s as a fashionable drug used by businesspeople due to its ability to help them move quickly and stay awake for long hours. Crack cocaine then debuted in the 1980s, a cheaper version of cocaine that produced a quicker high by smoking. The 80s saw an expansive crack epidemic, making crack cocaine one of America’s most dangerous drugs, and by 2008 cocaine became the second most trafficked illegal drug in the world.
Physiology and Side Effects of Cocaine
Like many drugs, cocaine works by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Cocaine causes an excessive build-up of dopamine and blocks the recycling process. The sudden increase in dopamine levels disrupts regular brain communications and causes the user to feel the effects of a “high.” According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, cocaine abuse disrupts the brain’s higher thought and decision-making functions.
- Extreme euphoria
- High energy levels
- Hypersensitivity to sight, sound, touch
- Irritability
- Paranoia
- Nausea
- Dilated pupils
- Increased heartbeat
- Tremors and twitching
- Higher body temperature
- Higher blood pressure
- Hallucinations
Common Street Names for Cocaine
- Coke
- Blow
- Dust
- Line
- Rail
- Powder
- Bump
Understanding Cocaine Addiction
Since cocaine is a highly addictive drug and can create a physical dependency, quitting can be very difficult for the user. Those addicted to cocaine for extended periods may build a tolerance to powder cocaine. At this point, some users switch to crack cocaine, which provides a more intense high but is detrimental to their health.
If you require treatment for cocaine addiction, contact GateHouse Treatment at (603) 506-5138 to get the help you need.
Quick Facts
- Estimated 1.5 million current cocaine users
- 913,000 met the criteria for dependence or abuse of cocaine
- 505,224 emergency room visits involved cocaine
- More than 100,000 babies are born addicted to Cocaine
- Cocaine can cause permanent psychosis
- The United States is #2 in the world for consuming
Signs of Cocaine Abuse
To understand if your loved one is suffering from a cocaine addiction, here are a list of signs and symptoms.
MOOD
Tooth decay, damage to nasal cavity, lung damage, kidney and liver problems, track marks, loss of appetite, dilated pupils, seizures, trouble sleeping, rapid breathing
BEHAVIORAL
Euphoria, extremely confident, friendly, outgoing, mood swings
PHYSICAL
Neglected appearance, misuse of finances, difficulties with personal relationships, problems managing life, secretive behavior, erratic or impulsive behavior
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