What is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant, generally used as a recreational drug. Other than cannabis products, it is the most commonly used illegal drug worldwide, and thus many people struggle with cocaine addiction and withdrawal. Despite this, many people still need to ask, “what is cocaine?” when they discover that a loved one may be suffering from addiction. Cocaine addiction detox programs can help.

Cocaine is a highly addictive substance and is manufactured using the leaves of the coca plant. If processed further, crack cocaine can also be manufactured. While some cocaine is manufactured legally for research or medicinal purposes, vast quantities are made illegally for recreational use. Mental effects of cocaine include intense feelings of euphoria, or feelings of agitation, as well as losing touch with reality. Physically, as a stimulant, the primary effects are rapid heart rate, sweating, and enlargement of the pupils, as well as high blood pressure and body temperature for large doses.

Cocaine Addiction Withdrawal Symptoms

The symptoms of cocaine withdrawal can be varied. Some of the most common include:

What to Expect from a Cocaine Addiction Detox Program

Despite how difficult cocaine withdrawal can be to suffer through, the good news is that it’s possible to get help if you or a loved one is struggling. While the exact process for different detox programs can vary, there are some key steps you can usually expect.

First, a through medical examination will usually take place, during which a medical professional will identify any preexisting physical or mental health issues, other addictions, and the general impact withdrawal has had on the user. Next is the detox phase. This is usually the most unpleasant portion, during which users may experience particularly severe symptoms or intense cravings. To lessen uncomfortable or potentially dangerous effects of withdrawal, many programs will issue drugs that counteract these effects. Many users feel tempted to relapse due to painful and unpleasant physical symptoms as well as the cravings, so professionally administered drugs can make the user less likely to relapse.

To give recovering addicts the best chance at long-term recovery, most programs will then offer counseling. This address the psychological reasons that caused cocaine use, and can help those recovering change attitudes for the better as well as teaching them effective strategies to mange stress in their life without drugs. After this, the period of recovery can begin, but it is important to remember that recovering from cocaine addiction is a long-term process. While cocaine addiction detox programs will help, support outside of the program from friends and family is key to prevent future relapse.