Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug derived from the coca plant native to South America. It’s most commonly found in two forms: powdered cocaine (hydrochloride salt) and crack cocaine (a freebase form, where the cocaine has been purified into a “rock” form). Powdered cocaine is often snorted, rubbed on gums, or dissolved and injected. Crack cocaine, named for the crackling sound it makes when heated, is typically smoked and delivers an immediate and intense high.
In both forms, cocaine affects the central nervous system by increasing levels of dopamine. This is the brain’s “feel good” chemical that serves to teach the person to continue certain actions that the body perceives as being good for them. The surge from using cocaine causes a burst of energy, confidence, and euphoria, which is why the drug gained popularity in party scenes and high-stress environments. But the emotional crash that follows, and the long-term consequences of cocaine addiction, are what make cocaine particularly insidious.
Cocaine is classified as a Schedule II drug by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), meaning it has a high potential for abuse and can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. While it is sometimes used for medical purposes, such as local anesthesia for specific surgeries, its recreational use is illegal and extremely dangerous. Fortunately, effective cocaine addiction treatment in Arizona are available to help individuals safely detox, address underlying issues, and begin a lasting recovery journey.
Short- and Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Abuse
The effects of cocaine begin rapidly and fade quickly, prompting many users to binge in order to maintain the high.
Short-term effects of cocaine use include:
- Intense euphoria and increased energy
- Heightened alertness and talkativeness
- Decreased appetite
- Dilated pupils
- Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
- Restlessness, anxiety, or paranoia
At higher doses or with prolonged use, these short-term effects can become life-threatening. These include tremors, vertigo, and muscle twitches or more seriously, cardiac arrest, stroke, or seizure. The risk of sudden death is particularly high when cocaine is mixed with other substances, such as alcohol or opioids.
Long-term effects of using cocaine include:
- Chronic nosebleeds and loss of smell (for users who snort)
- Respiratory distress or lung damage (for users who smoke crack)
- Severe gastrointestinal damage and ulcers
- Malnutrition and significant weight loss
- Heart problems, including arrhythmias and inflammation of the heart muscle
- Increased risk of stroke or seizure
- Cognitive decline, memory loss, and impaired decision-making
- Persistent anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations
- Severe depression and suicidal ideation
What makes cocaine especially dangerous is how it can rewire the brain’s reward system. Over time, users develop a tolerance that requires them to take higher doses to achieve the same high. This increases the risk of overdose while also damaging the user’s ability to feel pleasure without the drug (a condition known as anhedonia).
Signs of Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine addiction affects people from all walks of life, including professionals, students, parents, and even those with no prior history of substance abuse. Recognizing the signs of a cocaine use disorder early can help save a life.
Behavioral signs of cocaine addiction may include:
- Disappearing to use cocaine in secret
- Uncharacteristic bursts of energy followed by fatigue or irritability
- Missing work, school, or social obligations
- Financial problems or stealing to support buying cocaine
- Risky behaviors, such as driving under the influence or unsafe sex
Physical symptoms of cocaine addiction may include:
- Constant runny nose or frequent nosebleeds
- Dilated pupils and restlessness
- Rapid speech or hyperactivity
- Muscle tics or twitches
- Weight loss and poor hygiene
Psychological and emotional signs of cocaine addiction may include:
- Sudden mood swings or paranoia
- Increased anxiety or depressive episodes
- Hallucinations or delusions (with chronic use)
- Obsessive thoughts about obtaining and using cocaine
- Feelings of hopelessness or suicidal thoughts when not using cocaine
Even after detox, intense cravings for cocaine can persist for months or years. This can be especially true during stressful life events.
How Dangerous is Cocaine? A Real-World Perspective
To understand just how dangerous cocaine can be, one only has to look at the data. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), over 24,000 people in the U.S. died from drug overdoses involving cocaine in 2021.
This number continues to rise due to fentanyl-laced cocaine flooding the illicit market. Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. But many users are unaware that their cocaine is cut with synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which adds a hidden risk to recreational use. Even one line can cause overdose. But beyond the risk of overdose, cocaine can destroy careers, families, and personal identity.
Receive Help for Cocaine Addiction at Granite Mountain Behavioral Healthcare
If you or someone you love is struggling with cocaine addiction, there is hope and healing is possible. At Granite Mountain Behavioral Healthcare, we specialize in evidence-based treatment that addresses addiction and the underlying causes behind it.
Our Arizona-based recovery program is designed to offer individualized care in a supportive, judgment-free environment. From medically supervised detox to long-term residential treatment, our team of licensed therapists, physicians, and recovery specialists work together to build a plan that meets each client’s unique needs.
We don’t just treat addiction; we help our clients rediscover purpose, rebuild trust, and restore balance to their lives. Whether it’s your first time seeking treatment or you’ve relapsed after years of sobriety, it’s never too late to start again. Our compassionate admissions team is here 24/7 to help guide you through the next steps. Contact us today to learn more!
