At Pines Recovery Life Detox in South Florida, we provide detox services for several illicit substances. Our cocaine detox program caters to the unique needs of those with an addiction to this powerful narcotic. If someone you know develops a drug and alcohol problem, we encourage you to sign up for substance abuse detox today.…
In 1986, an American music group by the name of General Kane released a song describing the painful and consuming nature of drug addiction. The fictional Nathan “Applejack” Lewis came from a loving, two-parent home, but after being exposed to drugs, his life was turned upside down. He stole and even prostituted his wife … and himself … to maintain his drug addiction. There is nothing glamorous about cocaine … in any form. There is no grey area or silver lining when it comes to cocaine usage. It is a dangerous, illegal drug that should be avoided at all costs. Let’s jump straight in and get to the facts.
What is cocaine?
The USDEA categorizes drugs into a number of categories according to the potency and potential for addiction. Cocaine is listed as a Schedule II drug, which is defined as a drug which has the potential for abuse and physical dependence.
Cocaine can appear as a fine, white, crystal powder or as a solid, rock crystal. It can be snorted through the nose, injected into the bloodstream via a needle, smoked, or rubbed into the gums to induce a high that involves feelings of increased energy and alertness. It is an extremely addictive and destructive drug. Cocaine increases the arousal activity in the brain, resulting in feelings of invincibility, loss of appetite, and sexual arousal.
As of 2017, the estimated 14.9% of people aged 12 and older have reported lifetime cocaine use. This means that an estimated 6 million Americans have used cocaine in their lifetime. Cocaine use often seems harmless at the beginning but it is a highly addictive substance that can lead to a number of physical, emotional, and social consequences. Being able to identify cocaine addiction in yourself or a loved once can be paramount to preventing a bad situation from getting worse.
Identifying Cocaine
Being able to identify cocaine and help you know what you are looking for if you find it in a loved one’s possession. There are 2 forms of cocaine, powered and crystalized (crack). Powdered cocaine is most commonly used and can be snorted, injected, or smoked. Crack cocaine is rock/crystal form of the drug that is typically smoked. Crack cocaine is more intense and the effects are felt quicker, but they also wear off quicker. Like many other odorless illicit drugs, cocaine is commonly stored in small plastic baggies.