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Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant derived from the coca plant. It can be taken in different ways including snorting through the nose, rubbing it on the gums, dissolving it into powder then injecting it into the bloodstream, or smoking it.

Cocaine is known for its addictive nature and destructive impact on an individual’s mental and physical health.

Short-term Consequences of Cocaine Abuse

  • Intense euphoria – Cocaine works by flooding the brain with dopamine which results in feelings of euphoria and increased energy. This is short-lived, however, leading to a severe crash once the drug wears off.
  • Increased alertness – Cocaine use temporarily heightens focus and alertness thus improving productivity and performance.
  • Agitation and anxiety – Once the high wears off, anxiety, agitation, and restlessness settle in. These can give way to full-blown panic attacks.
  • Different physical symptoms – Cocaine abuse can result in a range of physical symptoms including increased heart rate, high blood pressure, dilated pupils, and a reduced appetite.

Long-term Consequences of Cocaine Abuse

Addiction

Prolonged cocaine abuse eventually leads to tolerance and addiction as the body continuously craves the drug. Cocaine addiction is characterized by intense cravings, loss of control, and continued use despite negative consequences.

Health complications

Long-term cocaine abuse may lead to cardiovascular issues including heart attacks and arrhythmia as well as respiratory damage, neurological disorders, and gastrointestinal complications.

Mental health issues

Cocaine abuse may result in mental health issues including anxiety, depression, and psychosis.

Cognitive impairment

Using cocaine for a long time may affect areas of the brain associated with memory, decision-making, and overall cognitive function. These effects may persist long after quitting cocaine use.

Legal and financial consequences

Cocaine is an illegal drug and individuals may be arrested for possession and distribution, resulting in serious legal issues. Additionally, those addicted to cocaine may spend exorbitant amounts of money to feed their addiction, leading to financial problems

Relationship and social problems

Cocaine addiction often strains relationships with family and close friends because of the addict’s lying, erratic behavior, and neglect of responsibilities.

Overdose risk

There’s an increased risk of overdosing on cocaine, especially with inconsistent purity levels of the drug as well as the availability of adulterated cocaine. Overdosing on cocaine may lead to respiratory failure, seizures, and death.

Don’t Let Cocaine Addiction Control Your Future

The consequences of cocaine abuse are severe and can be devastating to a person’s physical, mental, and social well-being.

At the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery, we acknowledge the challenges of cocaine addiction. However, we believe that with appropriate treatment and support, those battling cocaine addiction can break free of their bonds. That’s why we provide different evidence-based addiction treatment programs on both residential and outpatient basis, with an emphasis on tailored treatment plans. We provide a full continuum of care from detox to intensive outpatient treatment and aftercare for those dealing with addiction. We also have a family therapy program that caters to families devastated by addiction. Reach out to us today to learn more about our addiction treatment programs in Kentucky.

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