Cocaine withdrawal can be a painful process. It makes waking up a struggle and staying clean difficult. The temptation to use again to feel better seems to always be present, but professional help can foster long-term recovery from cocaine addiction.
What is Cocaine Withdrawal?
Cocaine withdrawal occurs when use stops abruptly. Individuals experience withdrawal symptoms, and while these effects can be harsh, they typically pass.
Since cocaine and crack use cause chemical changes in the brain, these changes gradually affect the long-term neurological stability and mood when used repeatedly.
Once individuals stop taking the drug, the body and brain are no longer getting the stimulation responsible for making users “feel good.” When the binge is over, there's a serious "crash" where energy and mood plummet. Drug cravings begin and continue. Abusers feel tired, have low energy, and lack happiness because they are no longer “high” on cocaine.
Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms
A wide range of symptoms can occur when someone is suffering from cocaine withdrawal. Milder withdrawal symptoms include lethargy and extreme fatigue. As time passes, anxiety increases, and can last a few days or weeks as the body gets adjusts to non-use. Gradually, the person gets back to normal functioning, but this could take a significant amount of time.
Cocaine withdrawal side effects include:
- Cravings
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Irritability
- Agitation
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Nightmares
Coping With Withdrawal
Treatment centers offer services helping you or a loved one cope with the side effects of stopping cocaine abuse. Without professional help, many go back to using cocaine for relief.
A variety of treatment methods and support are available when you seek professional help to get through withdrawal symptoms. Coping mechanisms help deal with feelings and thoughts.
Support is a major part in cocaine addiction recovery to deal with the long-term psychological instability and mood disturbances like depression, anxiety and fatigue. Support groups in treatment aim to help you or a loved cope with side effects and cravings that could continue long after cessation.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse recommends certain medications to relieve cocaine withdrawal side effects. As of yet, there aren't any specific medications to stop the cravings or prevent relapse. There are many drugs that can be used to alleviate certain symptoms like anxiety and depression. When in treatment, medical professionals will assess if prescription drugs are necessary.
Cocaine Abuse Medical Treatment at Pinnacle Peak
Pinnacle Peak is a premier drug treatment center with a specialty in handling cocaine withdrawal and its symptoms. We also specialize in alcohol, heroin, opioid prescription painkillers and meth addictions.
We understand addiction is a progressive disease. We're focused on providing care and support for you or a loved to beat cocaine addiction.
Call 866-377-4761 now to speak with our admissions staff. You'll get a better understanding of our treatment plans, and get the answers needed to start the recovery journey to a new and sober lifestyle.
