Cocaine Detox

Millions of people worldwide are impacted by drug addiction, with devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities. Prescription medicines, as well as illegal narcotics like heroin or cocaine, all lead to drug addiction. Whatever the drug, active addiction results in risky behavior, mental health issues, and even death without help. Fortunately, people suffering from substance use disorders have access to treatment options. Pacific Sands Recovery provides safe and effective addiction treatment, including cocaine detox in Orange County, California.

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What is Cocaine?

Cocaine comes from the South American coca plant and is a powerful stimulant affecting the central nervous system. It appears as a fine white powder in its pure form that is typically snorted or injected. Additionally, cocaine is made into a crystal form known as crack cocaine that is smoked.

According to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), cocaine is a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act. Due to its high potential for abuse and addiction. But, it also has a recognized medical purpose for treatment in the United States. 

The main medical use of cocaine hydrochloride solution (4 percent and 10 percent) is as an upper respiratory tract topical local anesthetic. In addition, it helps lessen bleeding from the mouth, throat, and nasal mucous membranes. Today, cocaine is seldom used therapeutically due to the development of more efficient drugs. Cocaine is illegal in most countries. Thus, possessing or selling it is a criminal offense.

Cocaine produces an intense euphoria, increased energy, and heightened alertness. It does this by blocking the reuptake of certain neurotransmitters, primarily dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. This causes them to build up in the brain. This accumulation leads to a rush of pleasant feelings and increased mental and physical stimulation. However, cocaine use also carries significant risks and potential adverse effects. 

Short-term adverse effects may include: 

• Increased heart rate
• Elevated blood pressure
• Dilated pupils
• Decreased appetite
• Feelings of restlessness or anxiety 

Furthermore, overdose can occur, leading to severe consequences like cardiac arrest, stroke, seizures, or even death.

Long-term use of cocaine has possible adverse effects on both physical and mental health. It can damage the respiratory and cardiovascular systems and also lead to gastrointestinal problems. Additionally, chronic use leads to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Cocaine addiction is difficult to overcome without professional treatment.

Cocaine vs. Crack

Both cocaine and crack come from the coca plant and are forms of cocaine. And, they are both highly addictive stimulant drugs. Also, both are illegal substances with serious health and legal consequences. Cocaine typically appears as a white powder that is commonly snorted through the nose or dissolved in water and injected into the bloodstream. It can also be rubbed onto the gums or smoked.

Crack, however, is a crystallized form of cocaine. It is chemically altered cocaine hydrochloride, the powder form of cocaine, using baking soda or ammonia and water. Then, the substance is heated and forms solid crystals. It is then broken into small pieces or “rocks” and smoked in a pipe known as a “crack pipe.” The appearance of the crack is white, off-white, or yellowish with a distinct smell. 

The main differences between cocaine and crack are the method of use, strength, duration of the high, and the cost of crack is much cheaper. Also, when cocaine is snorted or injected, the effects are more gradual and last around 30 minutes to an hour. However, smoking crack allows it to reach the brain faster, giving intense pleasure and immediate high lasting for only a few minutes. Often, this rapid and potent effect is what leads to crack binges. Not surprisingly, crack carries a higher risk of overdose and addiction.

Understanding Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine alters the brain’s reward system. Repeated use quickly leads to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. As the brain becomes less responsive to the drug, more of it is needed to achieve the same effect. This cycle of increasing drug use spirals out of control and quickly leads to devastating consequences.

Signs of Cocaine Addiction

Signs of cocaine addiction, like other addictions, depend on the person and other factors. Drug use itself is a sign their drug use could turn into addiction. Still, there are some common signs to watch for if someone’s substance use is getting out of control and they should seek professional help. 

Common signs that may indicate someone is struggling with a cocaine addiction:

• Intense cravings
• Increased tolerance
• Loss of control 
• Neglecting responsibilities
• Changes in appearance and hygiene
• Social withdrawal
• Legal and financial issues
• Mood swings
• Health problems
• Relationship problems
• Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed

Addiction is a treatable disease. Seeking professional help is the first step to recovery. If someone is struggling with cocaine addiction, Pacific Sands Recovery offers confidential cocaine detox in Orange County, CA. We provide private rooms in a safe and comfortable setting as well as personalized recovery plans with evidence-based treatment including dual diagnosis. 

Effects of Cocaine Addiction

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cocaine was involved in nearly 1 in 5 overdose deaths in 2019. Further, they report over 5 million people (2% of the population) reported current cocaine use in 2020. Also alarming is that almost 16,000 Americans died from cocaine-related overdoses in 2019. Indeed, cocaine addiction carries a high risk of severe consequences.

• Physical Effects: Cocaine use comes with a host of possible health complications. These include cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal problems. As well as permanent damage to nasal passages and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. Long-term or heavy use can also lead to weight loss, malnutrition, and a weakened immune system.

• Mental and Emotional Effects: Cocaine addiction also seriously impacts mental and emotional well-being. Users may experience anxiety, restlessness, irritability, and paranoia. Long-term cocaine use often leads to mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, as well as cognitive impairments, including decreased attention span and memory loss.

• Social and Financial Consequences: Like other addictions, cocaine addiction affects relationships, careers, and financial stability. People suffering from active addiction often alienate themselves from loved ones and support systems. Also, the costs of obtaining cocaine quickly become staggering, leading to financial ruin and legal problems.

24/7 Help Is Standing By

Visit the admissions page at Pacific Sands Recovery today to learn more about detox.

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Seeking Help and Treatment Options for Cocaine Detox in Orange County

Overcoming cocaine addiction is difficult but not impossible with the right treatment and support. The first step in overcoming cocaine addiction is recognizing the problem and seeking professional drug addiction treatment. Pacific Sands Recovery offers the following programs and services for drug and alcohol addiction treatment at our luxury rehab.

• Detoxification

• Dual Diagnosis

• Inpatient Addiction Treatment

• Intensive outpatient program (IOP)

• Individual therapy and counseling

• Group Therapy

• 12-Step Recovery

• Medication-Assisted Treatment MAT)

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Confidential Cocaine Detox in Orange County, California

At Pacific Sands Recovery, we understand that overcoming cocaine addiction is an incredibly difficult journey. We strive to provide our clients with the best possible care and support throughout their treatment. Our experienced team of professionals specializes in helping individuals overcome their addictions and live healthy, fulfilling lives. 

We offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs that include dual diagnosis treatment, cognitive-behavioral therapy, group therapy sessions, aftercare planning, and more. With our help and compassionate support, you can take back control of your life and conquer addiction for good.

Contact us to speak to an addiction specialist to learn more about our approach to addiction treatment and cocaine detox in Orange County, CA.