How Addictive is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a highly addictive drug, known for its intense and short-lived rush of euphoria. Regular use of the drug can lead to physical and psychological dependence, as well as unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. As a result, users may find it difficult to break the cycle of addiction and quit, despite recognizing the negative effects it has on their life.
Prolonged use of cocaine can also lead to changes in the brain's structure and function, making it even harder to quit. Users may develop compulsive drug-seeking behavior and may find it impossible to control their use. Despite the challenges, it is possible to leave cocaine in the past and move forward to a more fulfilling life.
Why a Cocaine Addiction Rehab for Treatment?
Given how addictive Cocaine is, as a substance (more on this later), it's little surprise why people choose to enter an inpatient facility for their addiction.
One of the main reasons is that cocaine addiction can be difficult to overcome without intensive professional intervention. Many people who have recovered from Cocaine addiction have shared their experiences with engaging in outpatient treatment. While many have found the process beneficial, the majority - whose addictions would be considered severe - have found that outpatient treatment was not sufficient in helping them consistently abstain from the drug.
Rehab provides a structured and supportive environment that is considered more conducive to healing and recovery. Centers, such as Horizon offer a range of evidence-based treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy, relapse prevention workshops, and group therapy which have been proven to be effective in treating cocaine addiction.
Additionally, residential treatment provides medical supervision, which is important for managing withdrawal symptoms and any underlying health conditions that may have been exacerbated by drug use. An inpatient center also provides a safe and confidential space for individuals to focus solely on their recovery, away from the triggers and temptations that may have led to their addiction.
What Cocaine Is and How it Affects People?
Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug that comes from the leaves of the coca plant, which is native to South America. It has been used for thousands of years by indigenous people in the Andes region for its energizing and euphoric effects. In the 19th century, coca leaves were first extracted to produce cocaine, and the drug was initially marketed as a medicine for a variety of ailments. It was considered a wonder drug and was even included in tonics and elixirs.
However, as its addictive properties and negative side effects became more widely recognized in the early 20th century, the use of cocaine began to decline. Despite this, it remained popular as a recreational drug, and its use increased again in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly in the form of crack cocaine.
The mechanism of action of cocaine is to block the reuptake of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the brain. This means that when these neurotransmitters are released into the synapse, they will linger in the synapse longer, causing an over-stimulation of the receptors. This over-stimulation leads to the intense euphoria and energy that users experience. However, this intense euphoria is short-lived, and as the levels of dopamine in the brain return to normal, the user may experience a crash characterized by feelings of depression, fatigue, and irritability. Quite often, Cocaine users will have an overwhelming desire to use more Cocaine only after a short time from their last ‘dose’ in order to maintain the intense high. This can quickly lead to a cycle of ‘chasing’ their previous high, and eventually addiction.
Long-term use of cocaine can also lead to changes in the brain's structure and function. It can damage the dopamine system, making it difficult for the brain to produce feelings of pleasure without the use of the drug. It can also lead to cognitive deficits, including problems with memory, attention, and decision-making.
Cocaine use can also cause a number of negative physical effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure, respiratory problems, and increased risk of stroke and heart attack.
Signs of Cocaine Addiction
Generally speaking, the last person to recognize a Cocaine addiction problem is the user himself/herself. However, knowing some of the signs and symptoms of Cocaine addiction can help break the person’s denial that they have a problem. It is also vital information for friends and family members to learn what addiction of this nature, typically, looks like.
Some of the more common signs and symptoms of Cocaine addiction include:
A strong desire or compulsion to use cocaine.
Little to no control over how much Cocaine is consumed once using has commenced.
Secrecy about meeting people and excessive amounts of money being spent.
Difficulty controlling or reducing cocaine use.
Neglecting responsibilities and relationships.
Paranoia, even psychosis.
Continuing to use cocaine despite the negative consequences.
Legal and financial difficulties that seem to crop up consistently.
Nasal problems, including excessive sniffing and nose, bleeding.
The inability to consistently abstain from using.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of things to watch out for when it comes to Cocaine addiction. But loved ones can refer to this list and see if their friend or family members display one or more of these behaviors.
If you would like to get more information about Cocaine addiction and ask about our program, please contact us today. Our admission counselor is also an addictions therapist who will be able to answer any questions you have about addiction and our program here at Horizon Rehab Center.
Cocaine Addiction Treatment at Horizon Rehab Center
At Horizon rehab center, we understand the importance of having a team of professionals who can relate to the struggles of addiction. Many of our highly qualified therapists are also in recovery themselves and can thus draw from their own experiences to help our clients. This not only provides a level of understanding and empathy but also serves as a source of inspiration and hope for those in treatment with us.
Recovering from cocaine addiction is a difficult and challenging journey. However, recovery IS possible with the right support and guidance. At Horizon rehab center, we are committed to providing individuals with the tools and resources they need to achieve lasting recovery.
As a fully licensed medical rehab, we also take pride in our highly esteemed team of medical specialists, who are able to provide clients with top-quality medical care, including medically-supervised detox from Cocaine. We also offer round-the-clock care through our English-speaking nursing team, support staff, and counselors. You can rest assured that you are receiving world-class medical and clinical care in a hospital setting with the feel of a tropical sanctuary. All this is at only a fraction of the price of a similar, or lesser quality rehabilitation center in Western countries.
We invite you to contact us to learn more about our program and how we can help you or a loved one take the first steps toward a life in recovery.