Cocaine has a long history. It has been used for thousands of years in its leaf form by the indigenous peoples of South America, and it was later isolated, purified, and marketed as a medicine. Eventually, its addictive properties and potential for overdose earned it a place on the United States Drug Schedule, and a black market developed.
Cocaine abuse and addiction have become a significant concern, not only to law enforcement but also to the medical and psychiatric communities. Therapies and medications have been developed that make withdrawing from cocaine safer and less distressing than ever before. Cocaine detox and treatment programs can help people successfully quit cocaine and return to health and recovery. At Pines Recovery Life Detox, our cocaine detox program may be what you or someone you care about needs to overcome this form of addiction. Learn more about our programs and services today by calling 800.263.3869 or completing our online form.
What Are the Symptoms of Cocaine Withdrawal?
First, it is vital to note that symptoms of cocaine withdrawal can occur even if someone is cutting down but still using a smaller amount of cocaine. Some of the symptoms of cocaine withdrawal can manifest almost immediately, and intense cravings for the drug are often reported during that time.
Some of the common symptoms of cocaine withdrawal include:
- Restlessness or agitation
- Increased appetite
- Muscle cramps or a feeling of general discomfort
- Feeling tired or sluggish
- Vivid or unpleasant dreams
Why Is Treatment Needed for Cocaine Withdrawal?
Withdrawing from cocaine can be extremely dangerous, not because the withdrawal itself can harm a person, but because of withdrawal’s chemical and psychological aspects. A person attempting to go through withdrawal of cocaine on their own will be at risk for several serious outcomes, such as:
- Becoming addicted to another substance – If the person decides to use another drug to ease the withdrawal symptoms, they risk transferring their addiction from one substance to another.
- Overdose – When a person has been using a drug for a period of time, they eventually build up a tolerance to that drug. After attempting to cut down or quit, they might return to using the drug at the same dosage but with a lowered tolerance. This can lead to an overdose.
- Suicide – Cocaine creates a sense of contentment and euphoria when used, but when the drug is discontinued, the resulting crash can cause a mental health crisis.
These outcomes are all quite serious, which is why it is a good idea to reach out to a substance abuse counselor at a cocaine detox or drug treatment program if you or a loved one are struggling to stop using cocaine.
How Is Cocaine Withdrawal Treated?
At Pines Recovery Life Detox, our medical staff and counselors assess the patient to determine the best course of detox treatment. During the initial stages, the patient will be monitored for any problems, and medicines will be administered to help the patient navigate the withdrawal process more easily.
After the initial acute withdrawal, patients are usually set up to attend a longer-term treatment program where any medications or counseling needed can be maintained. It can take some time for symptoms of withdrawal to fade entirely, but the acute flu-like stage only lasts a few days to a week. After that, psychological counseling and therapy will be needed to help the patient avoid relapsing and address the lingering effects of cocaine abuse and addiction.
Treat Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms at Pines Recovery Life Detox
If you or someone you love is struggling with cocaine addiction or abuse, please consider contacting a detox or drug treatment program in your area. If you are in South Florida, reach out to the kind and caring staff of Pines Recovery Life Detox by filling out our online form or calling 800.263.3869 and begin your recovery today.
