Cocaine/Crack
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What is Cocaine/Crack Addiction?
Cocaine is a powerful central nervous system stimulant derived from the coca plant. It exists primarily in two forms.
Powdered cocaine, usually snorted or injected.
Crack cocaine, a smokable form that produces a more intense and rapid high
Cocaine addiction, whether to the powdered or crack form, is marked by compulsive use, loss of control, and continued use despite harmful consequences. The drug floods the brain with dopamine, creating short-term euphoria followed by intense cravings, which quickly lead to dependence.
Stats Around World and Pakistan
Crack users in The United States
Cocaine users in Pakistan
Cocaine remains one of the most widely abused illicit drugs worldwide.
According to the UNODC World Drug Report 2023, around 22 million people globally used cocaine in the past year.
In the United States, cocaine use was responsible for 1 in 5 drug-related emergency room visits.
In Pakistan, the use of cocaine and crack has been rising, especially in urban cities like Karachi and Lahore, with increasing reports of its use among youth and professionals. While national-level data is limited, treatment centers are witnessing a significant increase in cocaine-related admissions.
Effects of Cocaine on The Body
Psychological Effects
Physical Effects
Happiness and Confidence
Cocaine triggers a surge of dopamine, producing intense but short-lived feelings of euphoria, self-confidence, and emotional high. However, this often crashes into irritability and depression.
Dry Mouth
Cocaine causes dry mouth, which may seem minor but contributes to dehydration, bad breath, and dental issues if use continues.
Increased Talkativeness
It increases talkativeness and social energy, making users more expressive and vocal than usual, but often in a disorganized and impulsive manner.
Dilated Pupils
It dilates the pupils noticeably, even in bright environments—a visible and common physical sign of recent stimulant use.
Heightened Alertness
Cocaine creates a temporary boost in focus and alertness, but this overstimulation can quickly lead to restlessness, anxiety, or panic.
Nausea and Stomach Pain
Cocaine use often causes nausea and stomach pain due to its impact on the gastrointestinal system, especially during heavy use.
Aggression and Unpredictability
It lowers inhibitions and heightens aggression, sometimes causing unpredictable, risky, or violent behavior even in calm individuals.
Increased Heart Rate & Breathing
The drug elevates heart rate and breathing, placing extreme stress on the heart and increasing the risk of stroke or cardiac arrest.
Loss of Appetite
The drug suppresses appetite significantly, which can lead to poor nutrition, unhealthy weight loss, and physical weakness over time.
High Body Temperature
It raises core body temperature dangerously, which in some cases can lead to overheating, dehydration, or even organ failure.
How We Treat Cocaine Addiction?
Comprehensive Assessment & Treatment Planning
- Evaluate physical and psychological health
- Identify co-occurring disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression)
- Create a personalized recovery plan
Medically Supervised Detoxification
- Manage psychological withdrawal symptoms safely
- Monitor mood swings, sleep disturbances, and cravings
- Stabilize before starting therapy
Psychological Therapy & Counseling
- Use CBT to address thought and behavior patterns
- Implement motivational enhancement therapy
- Build tools for craving management and relapse prevention
Family Therapy & Support Integration
- Educate families on addiction and recovery dynamics
- Facilitate open, healing communication
- Involve loved ones in progress tracking and support
Holistic & Supportive Therapies
- Offer mindfulness, exercise, and nutrition support
- Teach emotional regulation and stress management
- Promote overall mental and physical balance
Aftercare & Ongoing
Support
- Provide post-rehab counseling and peer support
- Design individualized relapse prevention plans
- Connect with recovery communities and alumni networks
