Understanding Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine is a synthetic cathinone alkaloid and stimulant both derived from the roots of two coca tree species, Erythroxylum capsicum and Erythroxylum methylated. It is primarily used as a euphoriant and recreational drug. The cocaine addiction develops when the pleasurable effects of cocaine wear off and it is replaced by anxiety, irritability, restlessness, and insomnia. When the user gets addicted to cocaine, it results in the so-called “crash” that may last several days. Cocaine addiction results in devastating health consequences and long term psychological damage.
Cocaine overdose often follows a number of circumstances. There are three main reasons for a cocaine overdose – taking too much, taking too much, or combining with other drugs. Taking too much cocaine can lead to respiratory depression, heart failure, cardiovascular collapse and coma. Taking too much cocaine also increases the risk of hypothermia, hyponatremia, and respiratory depression. When combined with alcohol, cocaine use can also cause hallucinations, cramps, sweating and convulsions.
To treat cocaine addiction effectively, one has to understand why it becomes habit forming. First of all cocaine is a highly stimulating stimulant and has a rapid onset of action, which makes it highly addictive. Cocaine use and addiction build up along with the drug in the brain (dopamine – a chemical messenger for coordinating nerve impulses in the brain and controlling muscular and immune functions). The more cocaine one takes, the more pronounced the dopamine buildup becomes, and the faster the stimulation effects become. This is why cocaine use often becomes a problem during periods of social withdrawal or depression. When the user returns to their normal state of functioning, the stimulation of the neurotransmitters reduces significantly and the cocaine “highs” or rushes of dopamine don’t occur.
Physical and Mental Health Effects
In addition to the physical addiction to cocaine use, the health effects are varied but include but are not limited to respiratory and cardiovascular problems, including pulmonary embolism, stroke, irregular heart rhythm, seizures, heart failure, and high blood pressure. Long-term health effects of cocaine use can also include depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. These long-term health effects, if left untreated, can result in severe health problems that may ultimately lead to death. Many of the long-term health effects can be prevented if the use of cocaine is stopped as soon as possible. If you or a loved one use cocaine, seek help immediately and speak to your doctor about treatment options. Treatment is available and can help you get back on track.
How to Overcome Cocaine Use Addiction: There are several ways to overcome cocaine use and addiction. The most effective is to overcome cocaine use by removing all association with the drug. For example, you can stop going to where you usually go to when using cocaine. You will then begin to develop other activities and friendships that you can enjoy instead of using the drug. You should also learn how to avoid cocaine use in situations where it will increase your risk for overdose, such as at parties and gatherings.
In order to break the cocaine reward circuit, the cocaine user must overcome both the physical addiction and the mental association with the drug. Without being able to break the cocaine habit, there will be no progress in breaking the health effects caused by cocaine use. If you choose to use cocaine, choose your friends wisely, and make sure that they are not addicts. This way, you can be sure that you are not putting yourself in danger of overdose. With strong will power and the right friends, you can overcome your cocaine addiction and enjoy life.