The first step of cocaine addiction treatment is the assessment, where a doctor will check if you have an underlying mental health problem, heart disease, or drug dependence. For this purpose, they may order routine tests, such as:
Follow-up care is essential to preventing relapses and maintaining your gains. This includes continuing support, education, and group/individual therapy.
Most experts advocate a dual diagnosis treatment model, as multiple drug use and mental issues often occur with cocaine dependence.
Symptoms tend to last longer in people who have taken cocaine for several years. This is because such people have large amounts of the drug stored in the body.
Cocaine users often use other drugs, particularly alcohol, which may affect the severity or duration of withdrawal.
The presence or absence of medical supervision and support during withdrawal is crucial. Medically assisted withdrawal management can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Co-existing mental illness is, like depression in those with cocaine dependence, can contribute to withdrawal symptoms such as dysphoria and anxiety. Additionally, heart disease and eating disorders may complicate the withdrawal process.
A personal experience or trauma or family history of drug use can affect how long the withdrawal lasts.
Those who consume large doses experience more intense symptoms than those who use lower quantities.
The first phase happens when a heavy user abruptly stops taking cocaine. Because cocaine has a short half-life (about 1.5 hours), the withdrawal symptoms occur rapidly, usually within hours to a few days after the last intake.
Phase 2 can last from 1 to 10 weeks and usually includes:
During this stage, you may have occasional cravings triggered by external factors, such as visiting the place where you used to take the drug. Some people may experience mild dysphoria. The extinction phase can last up to 28 weeks.
Addiction experts have repeatedly opined that withdrawal under medical supervision is the best way to detox cocaine out of your system.
Since cocaine withdrawal mainly causes psychological symptoms, many people think that detox is unnecessary.
However, this approach can backfire, as cocaine use can moderate suicidal attempts if you already have a co-occurring mental illness. Notably, even if you have no underlying mental health issue, detox can cause uncomfortable psychological effects and impair your quality of life.
Besides, medical detox is also necessary if you have a history of relapses in the previous withdrawal attempts.
Considering the profound risk of serious complications, most experts recommend enrolling in an inpatient program. Inpatient treatments offer 24-hour supervision that is crucial to addressing both cocaine dependence and an underlying mental health issue.
When choosing the most appropriate detox program, it is crucial to consider the required level of care, insurance coverage, and commitment. Silicon Valley Recovery offers a comprehensive Cocaine Addiction Treatment to help you at every step of your recovery process.
Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for treating cocaine addiction. However, behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and contingency management have shown effectiveness. Research is ongoing to find medications that may help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Support from healthcare professionals and participation in treatment programs can aid recovery.
Cocaine withdrawal typically begins within hours of the last use, with symptoms peaking around 1-3 days. The acute withdrawal phase can last up to 10 weeks, with symptoms gradually decreasing in intensity. Psychological symptoms like cravings and mood swings may persist for months. The timeline can vary based on factors like usage history and individual health.
Detox from cocaine typically involves a combination of medical supervision, supportive care, and sometimes medications to manage withdrawal symptoms. While there are no specific medications approved solely for cocaine detox, healthcare providers may use medications to address symptoms like anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances. Behavioral therapies and support groups are also crucial components of the detox process.
There is no specific medication that directly counteracts cocaine. Treatment typically involves supportive care and managing symptoms. In cases of cocaine overdose, medical professionals may use benzodiazepines to manage agitation or seizures and provide cardiovascular support. Long-term treatment focuses on behavioral therapies and support groups to aid recovery and prevent relapse.
There is no specific antidote for cocaine overdose. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and complications. Benzodiazepines may be used to control agitation and seizures, while supportive care addresses cardiovascular and respiratory issues. In severe cases, advanced medical interventions may be necessary to stabilize the patient.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to help flush toxins from your body. Engage in regular physical activity to boost endorphin levels and improve mood. Ensure adequate rest and sleep to support your body’s recovery process.