Tag Archives: cocaine addiction

Cocaine Overdose, Withdrawal & Addiction Treatment in Inpatient Rehab

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People tend to minimize the risks associated with cocaine, overlooking entirely the risk of overdose. But, cocaine is extremely dangerous and even first time users are at grave risk of overdose.

If you are struggling with cocaine addiction, your chance of overdose increases dramatically because you are using the drug more frequently. Unfortunately, many people do not survive cocaine overdoses; according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, cocaine overdose deaths increased 42 percent between 2001 and 2014.  Those who survive an overdose may find it is the wake-up call they needed to deal with their cocaine addiction and often FINALLY make the decision to seek treatment in an inpatient rehab.

Why Do People Overdose?

There are obviously a lot of situations that lead people to overdose, but all of them have to do with using too much cocaine in order to get high or to maintain a high. For example, some users continue to abuse the drug while there are still large amounts of cocaine in their system and this multiplies the effects of the drug. Other users may take a large dose because they have developed a tolerance and can’t achieve the same high with their old dose.

Often times, cocaine overdose is a complete accident. Users may obtain a drug that is much stronger than what they are accustomed to getting and not realize the risks when they use. If a drug has a higher potency or purity than what a user is accustomed to overdose can quickly happen without notice.

If you or someone you love is abusing cocaine, don’t wait until an overdose occurs to seek help. Call 1-800-559-0697 today to find an inpatient rehab center near you.

What Are the Signs of Overdose?

Common signs that someone has used too much cocaine may include:

  • Aggression
  • Paranoia
  • Panic attacks
  • Severe mood changes
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Extreme levels of energy
  • Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting
  • Headache
  • Raised body temperature
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Increased heart rate
  • Fainting and/or dizziness
  • Chest pain
  • Seizures
  • Coma

What Do I Do If Someone Is Overdosing?

Cocaine affects many of the user’s bodily systems and an overdose can quickly turn fatal if left untreated. For example, the arteries that feed the heart may constrict, starving the heart of oxygen. This can lead to a deadly heart attack or stroke that provides little to no notice before medical attention become vital.

If you suspect that an overdose of cocaine has occurred it is important to immediately call 911. While you are waiting for an ambulance:

  • Use cold compresses to reduce elevated body temperature
  • Move furniture and items out of the way in case of seizure
  • Remain present until help arrives

If there is no immediate emergency of overdose, but someone you love recently overdosed or you suspect that cocaine overdose risks are possible, call 1-888-605-7779 for help finding an inpatient rehab center.

Trying to Get Clean

After a potential overdose, you may decide enough is enough and it’s time to really focus on getting clean. If this sounds like your current situation, know first that you are NOT ALONE. Thousands of people struggle with cocaine addiction and need help. Many try several times to get clean before they seek professional help- and that’s “ok.”

 

Cocaine withdrawal is a real risk if you attempt to quit using after a prolonged period of use. In fact, many users struggle for months with underlying symptoms of cocaine withdrawal trying their best just to get well and feel better.

What Are the Symptoms of Cocaine Withdrawal?

Stimulants such as cocaine produce withdrawal symptoms that are unlike those caused by sedatives, opioids, or alcohol.  According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration symptoms of withdrawal from cocaine may include:

  • Drug cravings
  • Irritability
  • Paranoia
  • Anxiety
  • Increased appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Psychomotor retardation
  • Hypersomnia or insomnia
  • Poor concentration
  • Depression

Cocaine withdrawal rarely produces intense discomfort or medical danger. However, if a specific patient exhibits signs of a poor outcome during detox, clinical interventions may be used.

Typically, symptoms of withdrawal from cocaine clear up after several days, but they can continue for 3 to 4 weeks or longer depending on the severity of the addiction and the length of time the drug was used.

Dangers of Cocaine Withdrawal

Many overlook the dangers associated with dysphoria (negative thoughts and feelings), but this is the most commonly cited cocaine withdrawal symptom that can be potentially fatal. Experts believe that dysphoria is a combination of \ withdrawal effects from stimulants such as cocaine coupled with the dawning realization of the consequences that have resulted from a binge. Together, these components can lead to suicidal thoughts and attempts.

Addicts may also face cardiac complications; therefore, IF withdrawal is taking place in a controlled medical detox facility the detox staff are to be made acutely aware of chest discomfort and any potential cardiac symptoms.

Another serious danger, seizures. It is common for seizures to occur during cocaine withdrawal. If someone you love is struggling with cocaine addiction, these dangers are some of the most common reasons why it is highly recommended that you seek professional treatment in an inpatient rehab center or detox center.

For help finding an inpatient rehab that can help you or your loved one overcome cocaine addiction, call 1-888-605-7779 today.

Safe Withdrawal in a Detox Center

The most effective method of safe withdrawal from cocaine is through the establishment of a period of abstinence. Intensive outpatient detox can generally accomplish this. If a patient can stay clean long enough, negative symptoms usually stop on their own. There are no medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treating cocaine withdrawal.

 

Cocaine Addiction Treatment

Cocaine dependence and addiction are crippling, but there are many treatment options available. Help is accessible IF you’re ready and willing. Inpatient rehab can help you or your loved one to get sober once and for all.

If you’re ready to overcome cocaine addiction, call 1-888-605-7779 today to find an inpatient rehab center near you.

Inpatient vs. Outpatient Rehab

If you choose inpatient rehab, you will be required to live at the rehab center. This is a great option for people who need the security of a drug and alcohol free environment. It also benefits addicts by separating them from the triggers and stressors that they encounter in their daily life.

Outpatient treatment only requires visits to the rehab center when there is a scheduled treatment meeting or therapy session. This option works well for people who cannot take time away from their responsibilities at home or work and it may also be less expensive.

Both options can work wonderfully for those struggling with cocaine addiction. The one that will work best for you is determined by your specific situation.

Behavioral Therapy

Psychological approaches that address the motivations, thinking, and underlying psychological issues that contribute to a pattern of substance abuse are the primary focus of behavioral therapy. By dealing with these underlying factors of addiction, counselors and therapists enable patients to make positive changes in their lives.

One type of behavioral therapy commonly used in cocaine addiction treatment is contingency management. This is a treatment that uses tangible incentives (cash or prizes) to encourage positive behaviors. Much like abstinence and improved social interactions, contingency management has proven effective for many people with cocaine addictions.

Pharmacological Therapy

In addition to behavioral treatment options, many pharmacological or medicine-based approaches are available to treat cocaine addiction. While there are currently no medications approved by the FDA for the primary purpose of treating cocaine addiction or dependence, there are a wide range of medications that can be used to help reduce symptoms of withdrawal such as anxiety, depression or insomnia. Many of these same medications are sometimes used long term as the user’s hormonal balance returns to a normal state.

Emerging methylphenidate treatment is also proving effective. Typically used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, this drug is sort of like cocaine. It causes the brain to feel as if any existing cravings have been satisfied without the user actually getting high.

Finding Inpatient Rehab

If you’re ready to get sober, or you know someone that’s struggling with an addiction to cocaine and needs help, consider calling 1-888-605-7779 to find a local rehab center near you. As you’ve seen, many therapeutic options are available to help you or a loved one to balance out and feel better despite an addiction to this powerful stimulant. One call could literally save your life…don’t delay, get the help you need today.

40 Health Risks of Crack Addiction that Signify a Need for Inpatient Rehab Help

This entry was posted in Addction, Cocaine, crack addiction, inpatient rehab and tagged , , , , , , on by .

When you begin using drugs like crack, you don’t think ahead to the consequences of long-term chronic use. It is recreational primarily and you don’t give it much thought beyond getting high. However, crack abuse tends to escalate quite quickly from casually getting high to relying on the drug to cope and struggling with addiction. But long before addiction sets in, certain health risks become evident. Recognizing the risks of crack addiction early on can help you to identify when you or a loved on should considering seeking help.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with an addiction to crack cocaine, call our helpline at 1-888-605-7779 today. We’ll connect you with an inpatient rehab center that can guide you to recovery and healing one step at a time. Rehab specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take your call and help YOU overcome crack addiction.

What Are the Short-Term Consequences of Crack Addiction?

Crack cocaine is known for its powerful, short-lived high. But, when it wears off, most people feel their moods swinging across the spectrum. It’s common for intense depression to quickly set in. Early on, many users notice the following signs of crack addiction:

      1. Panic
      2. Psychosis
      3. Loss of appetite
      4. Contracted blood vessel
      5. Enlarged pupils
      6. Nausea and vomiting
      7. Violent, erratic, inexplicable behavior
      8. Tactile hallucinations, like the sensation of insects burrowing under your skin
      9. Anxiety
      10. Paranoia
      11. Drug cravings
      12. High heart rate, body temperature, and blood pressure
      13. Increased rate of breathing
      14. Trouble sleeping
      15. Hyper-stimulation
      16. Hallucinations
      17. Hyperexcitability

    What Are the Long-Term Consequences of Crack Addiction?

    Long-term use has an impact on every system of the body. Smoking crack for a long time can lead to seriously health deterioration and a number of consequences that require professional care including:

    1. Severe depression
    2. Severe bowel decay
    3. Permanent damage to the blood vessels of the brain and ear
    4. High blood pressure
    5. Heart attack
    6. Stroke
    7. Liver damage
    8. Kidney damage
    9. Lung damage
    10. Infectious diseases and abscesses if you inject the drug
    11. Severe tooth decay
    12. Sexual problems, including infertility and reproductive damage
    13. Mood disturbances
    14. Psychosis
    15. Delirium
    16. Severe chest pains
    17. Respiratory failure
    18. Weight loss and malnutrition
    19. Tactile and auditory hallucinations
    20. Apathy
    21. Exhaustion
    22. Disorientation
    23. Increased frequency of dangerous behavior

Finding Inpatient Rehab for Crack Addiction

Obviously, the best thing you can do is stop using crack cocaine, but that may sound much easier than it actually IS. Crack cocaine addiction is hard to beat. The intense cravings that persist for many months following an addiction can quickly lead to relapse even for the most strong willed individual. This is because addiction is a chronic disease and it has nothing to do with your will-power or strength. In fact, some of the smartest, strongest and most mentally prepared people in the world have found themselves sucked into this horrible disease of addiction and begging for a way out.

If you or someone you care about is addicted to crack cocaine, call our helpline at 1-888-605-7779 to find an inpatient rehab center that will help you see the light. Our specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide support and care that will lead you to recovery. We realize this is a tough decision, but help is available to make this terrible addiction a thing of your past. Your future is waiting…

Your Treatment May be Covered!

Did you know that many inpatient rehab centers accept health insurance? If you have health insurance, consider this an option to help you pay for rehab. In addition to the coverage that insurance may provide to help you get clean and sober, many rehab centers also offer helpful cost alternatives such as sliding fee programs, pay-as-you-go options, and government subsidized care. If you’re avoiding the call for help because you think you can’t afford it, consider one of these helpful ways to pay for rehab and learn more about how to pay for rehab here.

Alarming Cocaine Use Statistics – Infographic

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Cocaine addiction is a serious problem that nobody is immune to unless they simply don’t use the drug. Unfortunately, anyone who abuses cocaine is at a significant risk of becoming addicted. These alarming statistics will shed some light on just how bad cocaine addiction really is.

infographic shows alarming statistics on cocaine abuse

 

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Who’s Using Cocaine?

  • 1 in 4 Americans between the ages of 26 and 34 have abused cocaine at some time.
  • 3.3% of high school students abuse cocaine.
  • Average age group of cocaine users is actually 18-25.
  • More men abuse cocaine than women.

Who’s Dying from Cocaine Addiction

  • 15 thousand Americans per year die from cocaine use.
  • 500K emergency room department admissions result annually from cocaine use.
  • From 2001-2014 there was a 42% increase in cocaine overdose deaths from the previous period of the same length

Teens and Cocaine Abuse

  • 4% of 12th graders report having used cocaine at some time in their life by the age of 18.
  • 2.5% of 12th graders recently reported having abused cocaine in the past 12 months.
  • Fewer teens use crack cocaine than powder cocaine.

Treatment Options

  • Many treatment options are available to assist you in overcoming a cocaine addiction.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Therapeutic communities
  • Disulfiram medication
  • Modanifil medication
  • Lorcaserin medication

How Recreational Users Become Addicted to Cocaine

This entry was posted in Addction, Cocaine, Drug Abuse and tagged , , , on by .

A cocaine addiction is much different than an opioid addiction, and not just because the two drugs provide very different types of highs. A person who is addicted to opioids, such as heroin or prescription painkillers, often has a very difficult time getting over the physical withdrawal symptoms, which often lead the addict back to using opioids. These withdrawal symptoms can be extremely painful and usually last 5 – 10 days or more, depending on the severity of the addiction. However, a cocaine addict has a different obstacle to overcome.

While there are fewer physical withdrawal symptoms associated with cocaine addiction, there is a significant emotional withdrawal that takes place, and lasts much longer than the physical discomforts of an opioid addiction. And, according to new research, this emotional dependence occurs in the brain much earlier than previously expected.

“The study provides evidence that some of the characteristic brain signals in people who have developed addictions are also present much earlier than most of us would have imagined,” explained Marco Leyton, a professor at McGill University and an expert on drug use and addictions.

Researchers at the university gathered recreational (not considered to have an addiction) cocaine users and had them use the drug with a friend that they had previously used with before. The sessions were videoed and then later played back to the subjects. When the subject was viewing the footage the researchers were also measuring their brain waves. They found that when the subject viewed their friend using cocaine the brain released far more dopamine than before and also indicators that cravings were more severe. This information points to recreational users who may not have as much control over their drug use as they may have thought.

This information is vital because it helps to open a discussion on recreational drug usage, especially having to do with cocaine. This extremely addictive drug is often used in party situations, and some people report occasionally using the drug, but do not consider themselves addicted. However, this new information likely shows that they may be more addicted than they thought.