How to Recognize Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine addiction is a dangerous condition with severe short-term and long-term consequences, including cardiovascular problems, respiratory issues, and mental health disorders. Recognizing the signs of cocaine use, withdrawal symptoms, and paraphernalia is crucial for intervention. Various treatment options, such as detoxification, behavioral therapies, and support groups, are available to help individuals achieve recovery.

The name “cocaine” alone conjures images of fast-paced lifestyles and fleeting highs. But behind the allure lies a dangerous reality: cocaine addiction, a condition that can quickly spiral out of control. Read on to learn more about cocaine addiction, how to recognize the signs, and where to turn for help. If you suspect that you or someone you know is struggling with cocaine use, this information can help.

Why Do People Use Cocaine?

Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant drug made from the leaves of the coca plant native to South America. It acts on the brain by increasing levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This surge of dopamine creates an intense feeling of euphoria, energy, and alertness, which is why people initially use cocaine.

However, this feeling is short-lived, leading users to repeatedly seek that high. The reasons people start using cocaine are varied and complex. Some may be driven by

• Social pressure: Wanting to fit in with a peer group
• Curiosity: Experimenting with drugs
• Stress relief: Seeking an escape from problems
• Performance enhancement: Trying to improve focus or energy levels

Regardless of the initial reason, continued use can quickly lead to dependence and, ultimately, cocaine addiction.

Short-Term Side Effects of Cocaine Use

The immediate effects of cocaine are powerful and can be easily observed. These effects typically appear within minutes of administration and can persist for varying durations depending on the route of administration. It’s crucial to recognize these signs, as they may indicate recent cocaine use. Common short-term side effects include

• Euphoria: An intense feeling of happiness and wellbeing
• Increased energy: Feeling unusually energetic and restless
• Talkativeness: Talking more than usual or at a rapid pace
• Mental alertness: Feeling more focused and aware
• Dilated pupils: Enlarged pupils, even in bright light
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure: A racing heart and elevated blood pressure
• Decreased appetite: Feeling less hungry than usual
• Anxiety and paranoia: Feeling anxious, suspicious, or fearful

How long do the immediate effects of cocaine last? When cocaine is snorted, effects may take 5 to 10 minutes to manifest but can last 30 to 60 minutes. Smoking crack cocaine produces nearly instantaneous effects that last approximately 5 to 15 minutes, while intravenous injection creates immediate effects lasting 15 to 30 minutes.

Long-Term Side Effects of Cocaine Use

Chronic cocaine use can have devastating long-term consequences on both physical and mental health. These effects can be subtle at first but become increasingly severe over time. Some of the most concerning long-term side effects include

• Cardiovascular problems: Increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and arrhythmias
• Respiratory issues: Chronic cough, nosebleeds, loss of smell, and damage to the lungs (especially with crack cocaine use)
• Neurological problems: Seizures, headaches, and cognitive impairment
• Mental health disorders: Depression, anxiety, psychosis, and paranoia
• Kidney damage: Cocaine can strain the kidneys, leading to kidney failure
• Gastrointestinal problems: Abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting
• Infectious diseases: Increased risk of HIV, hepatitis, and other infections (especially with intravenous use)
• Perforated septum: Long-term snorting can lead to perforation of the nasal septum, a severe complication that may require surgical intervention

Signs of Cocaine Withdrawal

When a person with cocaine use disorder suddenly stops using, they will likely experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be intensely unpleasant, making it difficult to quit without support. What happens when a person stops using cocaine suddenly?

The First 24 Hours

The first 24 hours after stopping cocaine use are often the most difficult. This period is sometimes referred to as “the crash” and is characterized by

• Intense cravings: An overwhelming urge to use cocaine
• Fatigue: Feeling extremely tired and drained
• Depression: Feeling sad, hopeless, and empty
• Anxiety: Feeling restless, irritable, and on edge
• Increased appetite: Feeling hungrier than usual
• Difficulty concentrating: Trouble focusing or thinking clearly
• Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or excessive sleeping

The First Week

What are the signs of cocaine withdrawal and craving? During the first week of cocaine withdrawal, symptoms can fluctuate in intensity. While some symptoms may improve, others may persist or worsen. Common symptoms during this period include

• Mood swings: Experiencing rapid shifts in mood
• Irritability: Feeling easily annoyed or angered
• Anhedonia: Inability to experience pleasure from once enjoyable activities
• Cognitive difficulties: Problems with memory, attention, and decision-making
• Physical discomfort: Muscle aches, headaches, and stomach problems

Months Later

Even months after stopping cocaine use, some individuals may experience protracted withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include

• Persistent cravings: Continuing to experience strong urges to use cocaine
• Depression: Feeling persistently sad or hopeless
• Anxiety: Experiencing chronic anxiety or panic attacks
• Cognitive impairment: Ongoing problems with memory, attention, and executive function

Identifying Cocaine Paraphernalia

Another way to recognize drug addiction is by recognizing the paraphernalia. The presence of certain items can be a clear indication of cocaine use. These items vary depending on how the drug is administered:

• Powder cocaine: Small mirrors, razor blades, cut straws or rolled paper tubes, small spoons, credit cards or identification cards with white residue, and small glass or plastic vials
• Crack cocaine: Glass pipes (often small and cylindrical), lighters, steel wool or screens used as filters, and small containers for holding the drug

What a Cocaine Overdose Looks Like

A cocaine overdose is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of an overdose and call for help immediately. Common symptoms include

• Chest pain: Feeling tightness or pressure in the chest
• Difficulty breathing: Gasping for air or struggling to breathe
• Rapid heart rate: A racing heart that feels irregular
• High blood pressure: Dangerously elevated blood pressure
• Hyperthermia: Dangerously high body temperature
• Seizures: Uncontrolled muscle spasms and loss of consciousness
• Stroke: Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, slurred speech, or vision problems
• Cardiac arrest: Sudden loss of consciousness and breathing

Cocaine-involved overdose deaths have experienced a dramatic increase, rising by 73.5 percent between 2019 and 2022. This stark increase is largely attributed to the proliferation of fentanyl-contaminated cocaine supplies, which significantly increases the risk of fatal overdoses.

Cocaine Addiction Treatment

If you or someone you know is struggling with cocaine addiction, know that help is available. Cocaine treatment options include:

• Detoxification: Medically supervised withdrawal management to help safely remove cocaine from the body
• Behavioral therapies: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management are effective in helping people change their thoughts and behaviors related to cocaine use
• Support groups: Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and other support groups provide a safe and supportive environment for people in recovery
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): While there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for cocaine addiction, some medications can help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings
• Residential treatment: Inpatient programs provide intensive treatment and support in a structured environment
• Outpatient treatment: Outpatient programs offer flexible treatment options that allow people to continue living at home while receiving therapy and support

FAQ About Cocaine

Do dilated pupils always mean someone is on coke? No, dilated pupils can be caused by a variety of factors, including medications, eye drops, and certain medical conditions. However, dilated pupils are a common sign of cocaine use.

What behavioral changes indicate cocaine use? Changes in mood and energy level due to cocaine, associating with different peer groups, secretive behavior, and financial difficulties.

When does cocaine use become a severe addiction? When cocaine use leads to compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences.

What are the physical signs of cocaine addiction? What are the physical signs of cocaine addiction? Dilated pupils, increased heart rate and blood pressure, chronic nosebleeds, and respiratory problems.

How can I tell if a family member is abusing cocaine? How can I tell if a family member is abusing cocaine? Look for cocaine addiction signs, cocaine abuse symptoms, financial signs of a growing cocaine habit, and changes in mood and energy level due to cocaine.

How long do the immediate effects of cocaine last? The effects of cocaine vary depending on the method of administration. When cocaine is snorted, effects may take 5 to 10 minutes to manifest but can last 30 to 60 minutes. Smoking crack cocaine produces nearly instantaneous effects that last approximately 5 to 15 minutes, while intravenous injection creates immediate effects lasting 15 to 30 minutes.

If you suspect that is my loved one using cocaine, it’s important to approach them with compassion and understanding. Learning how to talk to someone about suspected cocaine use can make all the difference. Mountainside can help. We offer individualized and comprehensive addiction treatment to meet you where you are. Speak with an admissions specialist today.