Cocaine is one of the most used drugs and the second most trafficked drug in the United States. The rush of dopamine to the brain it causes plays a big part in why this drug is addicting. A cocaine addiction can result in numerous side effects and health complications. Fortunately, cocaine addiction rehabilitation programs can help you or a loved one treat substance use disorder and find support.
Gateway Foundation is here to help, and our evidence-based treatments and programs can assist you in getting your life back on track.
Cocaine addiction affects everyone differently, and treatment options vary based on individual circumstances. Learn more about cocaine addiction below.
Cocaine is one of the most commonly used drugs in the United States. It’s derived from coca leaves, a plant most commonly found in South America.
Cocaine is an extremely potent nervous system stimulant. It causes the release of a surge of dopamine, the neurotransmitter most commonly associated with feelings of pleasure, while also inhibiting the brain’s ability to reabsorb excess “feel-good” chemicals. This reaction creates an intense state of euphoria that couples with the drug’s powerful stimulant effects. As a result, cocaine is known to create intense cravings after just one dose. Those who use cocaine can keep dosing for hours on end to maintain their high, often resulting in extended binges.
There are two main types of cocaine:
Our bodies are unique, and a cocaine addiction will affect one person differently from the next. However, you can look for certain signs and symptoms if you suspect a loved one is using cocaine. They might seem more energetic than usual, or they may stop showing up to social gatherings.
Spotting substance use can help identify when a loved one might need help. You can detect cocaine use if you keep a lookout for these telltale signs:
These signs will be accompanied by other changes that can be spotted easily with closer inspection. Cocaine has a unique effect on the person using the substance and will cause various symptoms, but common symptoms of cocaine use include:
The more someone uses cocaine, the more intense the symptoms will become. Their body will build a tolerance to the substance, and more of the drug will be needed to achieve the same effect. As a result, long-term severe health complications can affect the individual, like an increased risk for heart attack. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, a substance use disorder may be responsible.
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Drug addiction can happen to people from all walks of life. Cocaine has a unique effect on the brain. When cocaine enters the system, the brain’s dopamine becomes highly concentrated, and the drug blocks the synapses that allow dopamine to be discarded. Dopamine is one of our body’s “feel-good” chemicals, and when we experience a surge of it, we feel pleasure. This intense feeling drives people to continue repeating the activity.
Cocaine’s effects also don’t last as long as other drugs, so the desire to use it more frequently to achieve the same feeling is one reason that addiction can occur quickly with this drug. The more cocaine is used, the more the brain becomes reliant on it for dopamine production, which is why it can be challenging to quit. It’s also possible to develop a psychological addiction to the drug and how it makes you feel.
A cocaine addiction can happen for many reasons, and various factors come into play to make addiction more likely. Some people are more prone to develop an addiction than others due to certain risk factors, including:
Genetic, environmental and physical influences are the main reasons drug addiction develops. Most of these factors are out of our control, but being aware that they exist is a great way to prevent addiction. However, there are other risk factors to be mindful of that may increase the likelihood of addiction, including:
Understanding the risk factors can help you identify if you or someone you love is more likely to become addicted to cocaine. While it’s true that some environments do increase the chances of forming a drug addiction, anyone can become addicted to cocaine. Regardless of how substance use develops, treatment is available for everyone, and recovery is possible.
Using any drug will have both short- and long-term effects. Cocaine is a stimulant that directly affects the brain’s neuron receptors, and its effects differ from other drugs — therefore everyone’s experience will vary. However, using cocaine increases the likelihood of experiencing any of the following side effects.
Cocaine’s short-term effects can be observed and felt shortly after the drug is taken. Here are a few common short-term effects of cocaine use:
Other effects that can appear with short-term use include a runny nose and other cold-like symptoms, frequent nosebleeds and burn marks on the hands and lips if a method like smoking is used.
Prolonged cocaine use alters the expression of the brain’s dopamine receptors, meaning dopamine becomes trapped. This accumulation of dopamine increases the feelings of euphoria. Over time, the body will become accustomed to the increased dopamine levels, and more of the drug will need to be used to achieve the euphoric effect. This change in the brain’s nerve cell structure is just one of the many effects long-term use has on the body.
Continued cocaine use leads to numerous long-term effects on your mind, body and life. The severity of the effects will be determined by how much was used and for how long.
Using cocaine for extended periods can have many lasting effects on your health. Headaches, lung damage, loss of smell and permanent changes to nerve cell receptors are a few common long-term side effects.
One possible health complication associated with long-term cocaine use is malnourishment since the drug can suppress your appetite. Malnourishment can affect the body in several ways, such as limiting mobility and facilitating a suppressed immune system.
Using cocaine for an extended time can also increase your chances of developing serious conditions like heart disease, which enhances your risk of a heart attack or stroke. It’s also possible to experience seizures or convulsions after frequent use. If someone builds up a high enough tolerance, they may use too much of the substance and end up overdosing.
Some people use cocaine to self-medicate or cope with mental health problems. However, cocaine can often make mental health conditions worse. Some side effects of using cocaine include anxiety, paranoia and depression. The longer the substance is used and the higher the dose, the stronger these effects become. In severe cases, someone could develop panic attacks or experience psychosis.
When someone uses cocaine for a long time, their personal relationships are directly affected. Many people keep their substance use a secret from their friends or family, creating distance and strain in these relationships. Substance use also makes the individual feel socially isolated from their support network, which can drive them to use more of the drug. Once the drug use is discovered, this might result in trust issues between family members or friends.
The mood changes associated with cocaine use can also negatively impact personal relationships. In some situations, the irritability and withdrawal symptoms can cause angry or violent outbursts. These situations cause excess strain and stress for all parties involved.
Cocaine use also takes up a lot of time. Someone who uses the drug may spend less time with family members or friends, and the longer an addiction lasts, the more frequently this will occur. It can also impact your work life. Drug use can make you less productive at work and affect your attendance, which then impacts your finances if you lose your job.
Cocaine alters the brain after just one use, and the long-term effects of prolonged usage can be detrimental to your body, mind and personal relationships. Seeking treatment sooner rather than later can help you tackle an addiction before it alters your brain and body in powerful ways. Some signs you may need to seek treatment include:
If you’ve experienced any of these changes due to cocaine use, it’s time to seek professional addiction treatment.
Don’t let your substance use continue to wreak havoc on your life. Start your recovery today.
877.381.6538If you or a loved one is struggling with a cocaine addiction, you can take multiple treatment avenues. Treatment varies based on the individual and is customized according to the level of care you need. Doctors will also consider your specific circumstances when developing a treatment plan. A professional at Gateway Foundation will speak to you about your substance use and help you determine which level of treatment would be best for your recovery.
The residential treatment program at Gateway Foundation allows you to recover from addiction in a safe and sober environment. You’ll stay at the treatment facility while you recover, with medical support available at all times of the day. Inpatient care provides you with structure and helps you manage withdrawals so there isn’t any chance for relapse.
During your stay, you’ll have access to multiple forms of treatment, such as group and individual therapy, to help you understand your addiction and treat any underlying causes. We treat mental health conditions simultaneously with your addiction so that you can learn healthy coping mechanisms and habits. Anything you might need during your recovery will be available to you at all times so you can take full advantage of the benefits of residential treatment.
Some people have outside responsibilities that prevent them from seeking full-time inpatient care. Some individuals may not want to take time off school to seek treatment. Others have family obligations requiring them to be at home.
Regardless of your reasons for not choosing inpatient, treatment options are still available to allow a successful recovery. With Gateway Foundation’s intensive outpatient program, you have full access to the treatment techniques used in the residential program but without the accommodations. Our intensive outpatient program meets multiple times a week for just a few hours a day. This program is flexible for those with a busy schedule, so you can seek treatment when you’re available.
Some people use an intensive outpatient program to transition between residential treatment and independent living. However, you can also start with this treatment depending on your needs.
Sober living homes serve as a transitional stage between rehabilitation and full-time independent living. Our sober living homes give you a safe environment to live in while adjusting to regular life.
You’ll have access to a comprehensive support network and a structured way of living to help you get back on track. A sober living home also protects you from outside influences that might trigger a relapse. You’ll have plenty of privacy from your family, friends and co-workers so you can recover without judgment.
Sober living homes give you access to a 12 step integration program that teaches you further how to overcome your addiction and gain valuable coping mechanisms to help you adjust to independent living. Even after completing your program, you can access therapies and treatments to help you maintain your success through life.
Motivational interviewing is often used with other therapies or treatments, such as inpatient care. Some people may express resistance to receiving care or believe treatment won’t be effective. During the motivational interviewing process, these concerns are addressed to provide the patient with insight into why treatment is important and why it works.
This treatment option also looks at negative thoughts associated with recovery. Once these thoughts are identified, they’re debunked, and a positive train of thought is encouraged instead. Motivational interviewing asks specific questions and encourages patients to go in-depth about their future plans and how they aim to achieve them.
Asking clients to create specific future plans allows them to put things in perspective and understand how their addiction might be impeding them from making progress. The goal is to show individuals that treatment is the best method for achieving their future goals, whether they are short- or long-term.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is used alongside other treatment methods. CBT helps you identify current thoughts or behaviors that are contributing to addiction. This form of therapy effectively treats various mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety. Treatment centers often use it to help address the underlying causes of drug misuse.
Our CBT program helps you focus on your current belief system and enables you to alter your thoughts to frame them in a positive light. Reframing your thoughts also helps you learn coping mechanisms to assist you through stressful situations. Soon, your behaviors and thoughts will begin to align with your values and beliefs. At Gateway Foundation, we offer CBT in individual or group sessions depending on your needs and specific situation.
When you’re ready to seek treatment for cocaine addiction, the first step is to inquire about getting help from a qualified treatment facility. Gateway Foundation offers cocaine addiction treatment in the Chicago and Illinois areas. Be ready to provide the necessary information if this is your first time seeking treatment, such as your insurance information and what drug or substance you’re using.
Once you’ve gotten in contact with a treatment facility, you can then start the process of treating substance use. First-time treatment can be daunting, and taking the initial step to reach out and seek help is an excellent move in the right direction. Gateway Foundation makes the treatment process as simple as possible, and it usually occurs in four phases:
You’ll meet with a professional to discuss your substance use, and they’ll go through all the treatment options with you. The treatment you receive will vary based on your particular situation, such as the length of time you’ve been using cocaine, the amount used and the severity of your symptoms. It will also be important to consider your unique circumstances. For example, inpatient care would likely be the best option if your home environment is a trigger for your substance use.
Once you’ve discussed everything with one of our professional staff members, you’ll both create a personalized treatment plan. A customized plan for your specific situation will give you the best chance to recover successfully. At Gateway Foundation, you’ll have access to resources and support groups any time you need them.
Substances like cocaine don’t require a medical detox, but withdrawal symptoms can still be unpleasant to manage. Gateway Foundation’s treatment facility is a safe and sober environment that allows you to manage your withdrawals with 24/7 support. You’ll have access to various treatments to help you manage any uncomfortable feelings or symptoms that may arise during your rehabilitation.
We also offer a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program to help you feel more comfortable and safe during your recovery. You’ll undergo a complete examination by a medical professional to determine what medication would work best for you.
This examination will also address any physical or mental conditions that may require care. Often, people turn to substances like cocaine to self-medicate or cope with these conditions. The MAT program will help you treat these conditions as part of your cocaine addiction recovery treatment to ensure a relapse doesn’t occur.
It’s important to note that a secondary addiction is possible since the MAT program does use prescription medications. However, our medical experts are equipped to handle this situation and can help you at every step.
Managing your withdrawal symptoms is just one part of treatment. You have many options for treatment, which will have been laid out to you in the first step of the process. Your plan will outline each step to ensure a successful recovery.
Some people will require inpatient care with consistent supervision and staff on hand 24/7 to assist them with their needs. Some people might require intensive outpatient care due to outside responsibilities or simply because inpatient care isn’t the right option. At every level of care, you’ll have access to various treatments, such as group therapy, CBT or motivational interviewing. Your treatment plan can also be adjusted as you continue the path to recovery.
For many people, recovery is a lifelong process. Before you complete treatment at Gateway Foundation, you’ll meet with a professional to discuss your plans afterward. Just like your treatment plan, your aftercare plan will be unique to you and your circumstances.
For some people, aftercare means living in a sober living home or community as they transition from treatment to independent living. These homes are ideal for maintaining structure and providing a safe and sober location. Other people may join a therapy group that specifically addresses cocaine addiction to connect with others with shared experiences. These bonds can help create a robust support network and help you maintain accountability.
Aftercare and continuing the recovery journey after treatment has ended is the best way to prevent relapse and maintain healthy habits. Gateway Foundation has many clinical services that can be implemented in an aftercare plan, such as the 12 step addiction treatment program.
Seeking treatment from a cocaine addiction treatment center is the best way to overcome an addiction. Gateway Foundation is equipped to provide you or a loved one with quality care and support that you can rely on with our evidence-based treatments. While seeking treatment isn’t always easy, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
You’ll see numerous benefits in several areas of your life once you seek treatment, such as your:
Seeking treatment for substance use will also equip you with vital coping mechanisms to help you handle stress. You’ll learn to build healthy habits and routines you can take with you once you’ve finished treatment. The support network you’ll gain will help hold you accountable and be there for you whenever you need it.
You may also find new hobbies or passions during your treatment that you have never considered trying before. Treating substance use disorder will help you reclaim control of your life so you can focus on what’s important.
It’s understandable if you still have questions concerning substance use treatment for cocaine. Various factors come into play that might not be clear initially. Below, we answer some frequently asked questions.
We offer care to Illinois and surrounding residents and have treatment facilities in 16 locations across Illinois so that you can find a cocaine rehabilitation center close to home. Each location has various treatment and program options available, and being close to home allows you to remain comfortable and in contact with your support network.
Most health insurance companies cover at least some of the costs related to addiction treatment. Coverage will vary based on your insurance policy, so be sure to read your policy thoroughly or speak with an insurance representative to determine what costs and treatments will be covered.
At Gateway Foundation, we create a customized treatment for you based on your individual needs. This means recovery will look different for everybody. Some people may choose inpatient care and attend therapy daily as part of their treatment program. Others may attend therapy a few days a week for a couple hours at a time. When we create a treatment plan with you, we’ll review all your options in-depth so you know what to expect.
We offer multiple levels of care, including:
We offer a wide range of programs to suit your needs. Just a few of the ones available at Gateway Foundation include:
Not everyone will need medication during their treatment, but some people are prescribed medication to help them manage withdrawal symptoms. Medications are also used to treat physical and mental conditions that might be contributing to drug use. A medical professional will conduct a thorough examination to determine what medications are right for you. Medications will vary from person to person based on various factors, such as the severity of symptoms or underlying mental health disorders.
Your therapy schedule will be determined based on your level of care and personalized treatment plan. We offer group and individual therapy and family counseling. We use evidence-based therapy treatments to give you the best chance of successful recovery.
Cocaine use can massively impact your quality of life. Recovery from a substance use disorder is possible, and Gateway Foundation is here to assist you through your recovery. We personalize your treatment plan to help you reach success and offer multiple evidence-based treatment methods proven to be effective.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use, contact Gateway Foundation to get help. We have multiple treatment centers across Illinois to help you seek treatment for cocaine addiction. We’ll be with you at every step of your treatment and guide you toward a successful recovery.
Our medical team works on the physical aspects of addiction, including withdrawal symptoms and related health issues.
We consider group therapy a critical element of addiction treatment. During group counseling sessions, you can get support from a community of fellow patients.
At Gateway, we aim to nurture every patient’s passions in life and help them build healthy coping mechanisms.
Many cases of addiction have a related condition like pain or a mental health condition. We help patients find these connected issues and build strategies for addressing them.
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