Cocaine is not a new drug. For centuries, it has been used by native populations in South America as a natural stimulant. In the early 1900s, cocaine was used as the primary active ingredient in tonics and elixirs used to treat a range of medical problems. Cocaine was even found in the popular drink Coca-Cola and was used as a surgical anesthetic until research showed cocaine is a highly addictive and dangerous drug. As recently as 2017, cocaine use was linked to one in five overdose deaths in the United States.
What Is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant drug. When introduced to the body, cocaine works in the central nervous system producing feelings of euphoria, energy, and joy. Cocaine is made by processing the leaves of the coca plant native to South America into a fine white powder. There are several ways cocaine can be used. Each method, including snorting, smoking, injecting (after mixing with liquid), or rubbing onto the gums, causes the user to feel effects at a different rate of speed.
When you use cocaine, the effects of the drug are felt quickly. The effects are short-lived but very intense. Because the “high” resulting from cocaine use wears off very quickly, many who long to continue feeling symptoms of cocaine use will return for larger and more frequent doses. This pattern of use quickly leads to dependency, addiction and increases your risk for potential overdose. In most cases, it is challenging to achieve sobriety after developing an addiction to cocaine without the help of a professional addiction treatment center.
Is Cocaine Addictive?
In short, yes. Cocaine is a very addictive drug, and addiction often occurs very quickly. Data released by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in 2018 indicated more than six million Americans struggled with problematic cocaine use in the previous year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate nearly 16,000 people lost their lives to cocaine overdose in 2019 alone. Unfortunately, the intense and seemingly desirable effects of cocaine among those who struggle with an addiction to the drug continue to lead to an ongoing rise in use and overdose.
How to Detox From Cocaine
Long-term cocaine addiction leads to physical and functional changes in the brain. When left untreated, the effects of cocaine addiction can be fatal. In addition to structural changes, cocaine alters how the brain produces and releases the chemical dopamine. Dopamine is responsible for feelings of pleasure and happiness that often accompany day-to-day activities such as engaging with loved ones, eating, or even exercising. Cocaine use stimulates the brain to release dopamine in excessive amounts, which are so high the brain cannot release enough through everyday interactions to maintain the feelings and emotions felt when high on cocaine.
Although cocaine withdrawal does not generally lead to the same challenging physical symptoms one experiences with detoxing from other substances (such as alcohol and opioids). However, the intensity and severity of psychological withdrawal symptoms can vary widely and are often challenging to manage without the assistance of comprehensive treatment support.
Why You Should Detox From Cocaine at Rise in Malibu
Cocaine addiction develops quickly, and once a dependency on the drug develops, it can be challenging to overcome it without seeking help. Ongoing cocaine use will lead to harmful and sometimes irreversible effects on vital organs and body systems. It is essential to seek detox and treatment in an environment where you can receive the support and guidance you need to safely and successfully manage the emotional symptoms that often accompany cocaine withdrawal. At our luxury addiction treatment center in Malibu, we will work with you to develop a comprehensive cocaine addiction treatment program that meets your unique treatment needs. If you would like to learn more about how to detox from cocaine at Rise in Malibu, contact our admissions team today.
