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Crack Cocaine Addiction

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Crack is the street name given to a cheap form of cocaine that has been processed to make rock crystal, which is then heated and smoked. It is inexpensive to purchase and results in a quick high, which makes it a popular street drug.1, 2 Like cocaine, crack is a very strong stimulant that speeds up the central nervous system and places a strain on the user’s heart, lungs, and brain.

How Addictive is Crack Cocaine?

Crack cocaine is far more addictive than regular cocaine. Crack cocaine produces a short-lived and intense high. Because of it’s short half-life and the drugs intensity, users will rapidly abuse the drug and create a tolerance requiring them to use more and more of the drug in order to experience the same high.1, 2

It is rare for users to try crack first. Generally users who are addicted to crack have used cocaine previously. Due to the high price of cocaine and the affordability of crack cocaine, this becomes a replacement for their pre-existing cocaine addiction.

Symptoms of Crack Cocaine Addiction

There are many symptoms of addiction to crack cocaine. You or someone you know may be addicted if you are experiencing one or more of the following side effects. 1, 2, 4

  • Dilated pupils
  • Dry mouth
  • Excessive sweating
  • Loss of appetite
  • Restlessness
  • Hyperactivity
  • Extreme depression
  • Paranoia
  • Isolation
  • Defensive behavior
  • Mood swings
  • Hallucinations
  • Confusion
  • Picking at the skin
  • Difficulty concentrating

The warning signs and symptoms of cocaine use and addiction fall into two general categories: physical and behavioral. A diagnosis of crack cocaine addiction often includes symptoms from both categories.4 One of the criteria for diagnosis is when cocaine use causes severe distress or interferes with a person’s ability to function in one or more areas of their life.3, 4

Crack Withdrawal & Detox

While understanding the physical and behavioral symptoms of addiction can help you determine if you or someone you love truly has a problem, it is important to understand that the physical symptoms of crack cocaine addiction and withdrawal can be the most challenging pieces of achieving sobriety.

That is why the first phase of addiction treatment for most programs often includes detox. Detox is generally a 5-7 day period in which you are supervised by clinicians or medical staff to ensure your health and safety are preserved. You can find more information on detox here. 

Are You Struggling with Crack Cocaine Addiction?

If you are concerned that you may have a crack cocaine addiction, reading this article is a good way to learn about what it is and what the dangers are. If you recognize one or more of the symptoms listed above, you may want to consider seeking help. If you are looking for help but don’t know how to go about it, crack cocaine addiction treatment is available. Treatment can help free you or a loved one from an addiction to crack cocaine.

How American Addiction Centers Can Help

As the leading provider of addiction treatment in the U.S., American Addiction Centers offers high-quality care using effective treatments and unique amenities to make you comfortable while in treatment.

Our treatment model focuses on identifying any existing mental illnesses or mental health issues that may stimulate the need to cope with issues by using crack cocaine.

The next step in our treatment model provides an initial support system for those attending treatment and teaches them healthier ways to cope with their addiction.

We offer a full continuum of care that encompasses the primary types of treatment all the way from detox for those initially struggling to aftercare options like sober-living, counseling sessions, and support groups for those maintaining their recovery.

To find out more, or to get started, American Addiction Centers operates a confidential addiction hotline available 24/7 to help people find their path to recovery.

We can be reached at .

Still Have Questions About Treatment?

Learning about addiction and treatment options may feel overwhelming. If you are still unsure about how treatment works, how to ask for help, or how to get treatment, consider the following guides:

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