Cocaine Addiction Signs and Symptoms

Knowing the cocaine addiction signs can help someone struggling get the help that is needed. Learn more here.

Defining Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine addiction is characterized by frequent cocaine abuse. When you know the cocaine addiction signs and symptoms, you can assist someone who uses cocaine regularly.

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What is Cocaine Dependence?

One of the major cocaine addiction signs is a dependence on the drug. When someone takes large amounts of cocaine over time, they will likely form a physical and psychological dependence on the drug.

This means that they will likely have withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it. From there, if they have a dependence on the drug, they will feel like they can’t function without it. A cocaine dependence can lead to common patterns of addiction, making it difficult for someone to stop using the drug on their own.

What Do People Mix Cocaine With?

When cocaine is produced, bought, and sold illegally, drug dealers often mix the cocaine with other substances because it increases their profits. Substances that are mixed with cocaine are commonly other white powders, like caffeine or creatine, as this makes it easier for them to blend in with the cocaine.

Other stimulants, like methamphetamine, are also known to be mixed with cocaine. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is also combined with cocaine, and this can have a very dangerous, often fatal, effect.1

When someone takes cocaine that has been mixed with another drug, the combination of substances can increase the likelihood of the person experiencing adverse effects from the drugs. This can lead to overdoses and other life-threatening complications.

Crack vs Cocaine

The main difference between crack and cocaine is the way that the drugs are administered. Cocaine is usually consumed via snorting, being rubbed on the gums, or injecting. Crack is typically smoked.

Smoking crack generally leads to a quicker, shorter, and more intense high than people receive when they use regular powdered cocaine. Physical signs of crack cocaine addiction are usually similar to the signs of cocaine addiction.

Signs and Symptoms of Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine addiction symptoms and signs can come in many forms. The signs cocaine addiction is associated with range from mild to very severe. It’s important to watch out for crack cocaine addiction signs so that you can help those struggling with addiction find the help and the support that they need.

Early Symptoms of Cocaine Use

Early cocaine effects will set in immediately after someone takes the drug. If you can catch the signs of addiction to cocaine use early on, there is a higher likelihood that you will prevent some of the more serious cocaine addiction symptoms and signs from occurring.
Common early signs of cocaine use to watch out for are as follows:
  • Dilated pupils
  • Erratic behavior
  • Excitability
  • Heightened confidence
  • Irritable
  • Paranoia
  • Unusually high energy

Symptoms of Cocaine Abuse

As time goes on, the warning signs of cocaine addiction will become more severe. They can seriously damage someone’s health if they are allowed to continue over a long period of time.

Common symptoms that occur with cocaine abuse include the following:
  • Dilated pupils
  • Disrupted sleep patterns
  • Faster heartbeat
  • High blood pressure
  • Nosebleeds
  • Psychosis
  • Severe anxiety
  • Sweating
  • Weight loss

The Dangers of Cocaine Use

Cocaine Addiction Signs and Symptoms
There are a lot of dangers associated with cocaine use, many of which can be life-threatening. Even if these factors are not fatal, they can still lead to lifelong health complications. It’s important to watch out for cocaine addiction signs to prevent these dangerous side effects from taking place.

Symptoms of Cocaine Overdose

If someone frequently consumes high doses of cocaine, a cocaine overdose may occur. If someone overdoses, it is important that you call 911 or take them to the emergency room. Your top priority should be to seek immediate medical attention because overdose symptoms can indicate that a life-threatening outcome may occur.

Here are some common cocaine overdose symptoms:

  • Chest pain
  • Excessive sweating
  • Increased heart rate
  • Paranoia
  • Seizures
  • Trouble breathing
  • Unresponsiveness

Signs of Cocaine Addiction

In order to prevent an overdose or other serious dangers resulting from cocaine addiction, it’s important to look for the key signs of cocaine addiction. These signs and symptoms can inform you of someone who may be struggling.

Common signs of cocaine addiction are as follows:2
  • Deterioration of personal hygiene
  • Financial difficulties
  • Increased need for privacy
  • Intense cravings for cocaine
  • Lying
  • Paranoia
  • Problems at work or school
  • Relationship problems
  • Risky behavior
  • Trouble sleeping
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these cocaine addiction signs, there are resources available designed to help.

Understanding Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms

When someone stops taking cocaine after consuming it for a long period of time, they will experience withdrawal symptoms. This is due to a dependence on cocaine, which is often developed as a result of frequent use.

Symptoms in Initial Phase

In the initial phase of cocaine detox and withdrawal, the individual may still not experience cravings for cocaine. However, their mind and body can still undergo several other withdrawal symptoms during this time.

Some of the most common withdrawal symptoms in the initial phase include the following:
  • Fever
  • Irritability
  • Mild sadness
  • Weight gain

Symptoms in Peak Withdrawal Phase

Once someone reaches the peak withdrawal phase, they will begin to experience more serious symptoms that can range from uncomfortable to unmanageable. Serious withdrawal symptoms are the reason why proper medical treatment and support are necessary during the detox phase of the recovery process.

These are some of the most common symptoms that appear during the peak phase:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Intense cravings for cocaine
  • Paranoia
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Trouble sleeping

Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Abuse

Effects of Cocaine Abuse

Cocaine addiction can have many dangerous long-term effects on someone’s health and well-being.3 Health issues stemming from cocaine addiction can cause long-term and irreversible problems.

Some of the long-term effects of cocaine abuse include asthma, hepatitis C, HIV, and respiratory infections. With the right help and support system, the long-term effects of cocaine abuse can be avoided. Thankfully, there are many cocaine addiction treatment options for those searching for help.

Treatment for Cocaine Addiction

Recovery from cocaine addiction is possible. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these cocaine addiction signs, talking to a doctor or going to a treatment center can be a good first step.

Successful treatment programs include detoxing, attending therapy, developing coping mechanisms, and creating a long-term plan for success. After completing a treatment program, therapy and a form of aftercare, like the 12-Step Program, can make it easier to maintain long-term sobriety.

Resources

  1. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-in-cocaine-21989
  2. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/cocaine
  3. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/cocaine