Cocaine Rehabilitation
Cocaine is a potent alkaloid drug that is a stimulator of the central nervous system. It inhibits the re-uptake of dopamine, (a neurotransmitter), to prolong pleasure sensations in the brain. It increases blood pressure, heart rate and temperature while decreasing appetite. Users become accustomed to the bursts of energy they experience while using. Cocaine — particularly crack cocaine — is highly addictive because of its short half-life; the effects of regular cocaine last around 45 minutes whereas crack cocaine’s high lasts only 10 to 15 minutes. Cocaine usage remains prevalent in the United States and the need for cocaine addiction treatment is as high as ever.
Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Usage
The effects of long-term cocaine usage can be detrimental to a person’s health, finances and relationships. A person who craves cocaine does so because of a psychological desire to experience the euphoria associated with use. Some of the long-term risks of cocaine use include:
Drug Addiction Treatment for Cocaine Users
There are a wide variety of treatment options available for those struggling with cocaine addiction. Because cocaine addiction is strongly psychological, the focus is generally placed on the counseling portion of treatment. First, patients will enter into a detox program to eliminate the substance from their bodies. Following detox, patients will attend individual and group counseling sessions to discuss the nature of their addiction. Depending on the person and the level of their addiction, patients may even have the option of outpatient care, as opposed to a inpatient drug facility. This type of program offers more flexibility for those receiving treatment as they are not required to live on site at the facility.
Getting Rehabilitation Help for Your Cocaine Addiction
Please call our toll-free number if you or someone you love is struggling with cocaine addiction. Our operators are available 24 hours a day to answer your questions and discuss your drug rehab options with you.
