Cocaine is an incredibly addictive, illegal stimulant with alarming health consequences in the case of extended abuse and resulting in cocaine addiction. In spite of this fact, cocaine is one of the most commonly abused drugs in the U.S. According to a 214 report, over 1.5 million people aged 12 and older used cocaine regularly in the U.S. Young adults aged between 18 and 25 age have the highest rate of consumption (1.4% are users). Most of these people usually mix cocaine with other drugs, such as amphetamine.

Its appealing and stimulant effects make cocaine addiction highly likely. A lot of users don’t even realize that they have a problem until they stop taking the substance and experience the first withdrawal effects.

The problem with cocaine addiction and withdrawal is that the side effects might occur even if the user is not yet completely off the drug because the substance alters the brain’s chemical production the moment users stop taking the drug. The user will then experience a “crash.” It is important to seek professional rehab treatment from the professionals at Casa Capri Recovery for Women.

Cocaine Addiction: The Crash

During a cocaine crash, users might feel:

• Extreme cravings
• Fatigue
• Lack of pleasure
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Paranoia

Cocaine Addiction: Withdrawal

The method of consumption can have a high impact on the withdrawal symptoms individuals might experience. In most cases, users follow a binge pattern, after which they experience the crash. That is why the first withdrawal symptoms may occur even before the substance has left the bloodstream. When it comes to cocaine addiction, there are three main stages of withdrawal:

1. Crashing: The first symptoms can appear within 24 hours after a binge or a period of increased usage.

1. Withdrawal: This stage can begin within a week of the last dosage. The extent of the withdrawal depends on each patient, but it can persist up to ten weeks during which patients can experience mood swings, dysphoria, anxiety, and paranoia.

1. Extinction: The intensity of the symptoms will decrease during this stage. Some cravings and mood swings can persist even months after the withdrawal period has ended.