Cocaine is one of the most powerful substances in the world. A potent stimulant, people using cocaine often get hooked on the drug after the first use. Once thought of as a recreational drug, cocaine is highly addictive, and lives of users quickly spiral out of control. Without professional help, cocaine users can experience physical and psychological symptoms that can become life-threatening. If you suspect a loved one is struggling with cocaine use, you must first know the signs of cocaine use so you can get them help.
This article will further define what cocaine is as a drug, and you will understand the signs of cocaine use. Most importantly, you will learn where you can find evidence-based cocaine treatment programs in Utah. As one of Utah’s top-tier treatment centers, Spirit Mountain Recovery features effective cocaine treatment programs that give users the tools and support needed to achieve lasting recovery. Call us toll-free today and begin the journey to sobriety.
What is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug made from the leaves of the coca plant indigenous to South America. On the street, cocaine is a fine powdery substance that is white in appearance. Those who use the drug often snort the drug, or they can rub it on the gums. Users can also smoke cocaine that has been processed to make a rock crystal, that is known as crack cocaine. Additionally, cocaine can also be dissolved in water and shot into the veins.
In order to increase profits, dealers will often mix or “cut” cocaine with additives such as talcum powder, cornstarch, and talcum powder. Dealers also cut cocaine with powerful street drugs such as fentanyl, amphetamines, or heroin. Mixing potent drugs such as these with cocaine dramatically increases the chances of overdose.
What are the Signs of Cocaine Use?
When looking for the signs of cocaine use, they are seen in the physical, psychological, and social sense. The most common cocaine use symptoms from these three areas are the following:
Physical
- Rapid heart rate
- Elevated body temperature
- High blood pressure
- Dilated pupils
- Persistent nosebleeds
- Loss of appetite
- Bursts of high energy
Psychological
- Inflated confidence
- Impulsive behavior and poor decision making
- Wide mood swings
- Agitation
- Depression
- Psychosis
- Exacerbation of any existing co-occurring mental illnesses
Behavioral
- Being unable to reduce or stop use despite negative consequences
- Borrowing money or stealing money and property to pay for cocaine
- Being secretive or dishonest about your activities
- Increased social isolation
- Losing interest in activities, hobbies, or events that were once important to you
- Neglecting responsibilities and relationships
- Poor performance at work or school
Cocaine addiction signs are more prominent when people have pre-existing risk factors. These include a family history of cocaine and other substance abuse, having untreated or undiagnosed mental illness, and having prolonged exposure to drug use in the home or school.
How Addictive is Cocaine?
As already stated, cocaine is a powerfully addictive drug. There are several reasons why the drug quickly hooks users. First, the drug creates powerful feelings of euphoria, and users feel energetic, happy, and confident. These feelings are highly reinforcing, and people want to take more cocaine to reproduce those feelings. Secondly, the high from cocaine lasts 5 to 30 minutes. Because its effects wear off so quickly, users repeatedly use cocaine to keep those feelings going.
Thirdly, cocaine is often used in conjunction with other drugs. Common drug combinations include alcohol and cocaine, as well as heroin and cocaine. Depending on the drug, the effects of cocaine are amplified or negated. However, these drug combinations are highly dangerous and often lead to overdoses and death.
How to Find Cocaine Addiction Programs in Utah
If you notice the signs of cocaine use in a loved one, now is the time to act. The best chance of your loved one overcoming cocaine addiction is through a professional cocaine rehab featuring evidence-based treatment and experienced treatment professionals with a proven track record of success. As one of Utah’s premier treatment facilities, Spirit Mountain Recovery offers a dynamic and cutting-edge cocaine treatment program featuring clinic treatment approaches, psychoeducation, and the healing power of nature.
Our highly experienced professional staff creates individualized care that meets each client’s unique and specific needs. No matter the severity of your loved one’s cocaine addiction, Spirit Mountain Recovery can help transform your loved one. Call us today and help your loved one live their best life.
