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Understanding Cocaine Withdrawal: Symptoms and Timeline

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Cocaine addiction is a serious disease, but with the right support, recovery is possible. If you are wondering how to detox from cocaine, The Haven Detox at Royal Life Centers can help. We provide specialized cocaine withdrawal treatment, giving you the support you need to achieve long-term recovery. Addiction treatment can help minimize the negative effects of cocaine on someone’s life through a therapy program designed for individual needs. Not all rehab centers are the same; that’s why you should trust The Haven with your drug detox and recovery.

What Is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a dangerous and very addictive stimulant drug made from the leaves of the coca plant, which is native to South America. It is classified as a Schedule II drug in the United States, meaning it has a high potential for abuse. 

What Is Cocaine Withdrawal?

Cocaine withdrawal occurs when someone who has chronically abused cocaine decides to reduce or stop the use of this substance. This can be dangerous when done without medical support or supervision.

Cocaine, also known as “coke” or “crack cocaine,” works by affecting the brain’s limbic system. It does this by creating a buildup of dopamine. This chemical is responsible for producing feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. Excessive amounts of dopamine in the brain can produce a euphoric high.

This is what makes people want to continue using cocaine. However, when a substance like cocaine has been abused for a long period of time, the body becomes dependent on it. To continue functioning properly, the body needs continued access to this drug.

If this access is abruptly cut off, it can cause the body to go into withdrawal. This can cause a number of uncomfortable and even dangerous symptoms. More often than not, people who attempt to detox from cocaine alone end up relapsing.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Cocaine Withdrawal?

There are several signs and symptoms associated with cocaine withdrawal. These can vary based on the severity of your addiction, as well as any pre-existing conditions you may have. Generally, though, cocaine withdrawal can cause many physical, behavioral, and mental symptoms.

Physical signs

  • Physical fatigue
  • Slowed physical movement
  • Hypersomnia (chronic need to sleep)
  • Insomnia (chronic inability to sleep)
  • Reduced heart rate
  • Increased appetite

Behavioral signs

  • Self-harming behavior
  • Increased aggression
  • Loss of interest in hobbies or social activities
  • Avoidant behavior
  • Aggressive behavior

Mental signs

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Paranoia
  • Vivid dreams
  • Cravings for cocaine

What Is the Timeline for Cocaine Withdrawal?

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms can last anywhere from several weeks to months. If you are struggling with a cocaine addiction, it is important to understand what the withdrawal timeline for this substance looks like.

Knowing what to expect when beginning your detox process can help you prepare ahead of time. Most people will go through at least two phases of cocaine withdrawal: the acute withdrawal and the protracted withdrawal period.

Acute Withdrawal Period

For those in the acute withdrawal stage, they will experience an onset of several different symptoms. This can include intense cravings for cocaine, anxiety, irritability, lack of energy, and more.

Those with more severe addictions may develop more serious symptoms, such as depression, suicidal thoughts, and persistent insomnia. With the right help and treatment, these symptoms can be managed. For most people, the acute withdrawal period will last between one to two weeks.

Protracted Withdrawal Period

In some cases, individuals may experience prolonged withdrawal symptoms. This is known as the protracted withdrawal period and can last up to several months. During this time, suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be a major concern for those undergoing withdrawal.

Protracted withdrawal can happen to anyone but is more common among those with pre-existing mental health conditions. Because of this, it is crucial to seek professional help when going through crack cocaine withdrawal.

What Factors Influence the Cocaine Withdrawal Timeline?

When it comes to how long it takes to detox from cocaine, this timeline can vary based on several factors. This includes how long you have been addicted to cocaine, how much you have been taking, and whether you have any co-occurring conditions.

The amount used, how long someone used, body chemistry

People who have used more cocaine for a longer time are likely to have worse withdrawal symptoms. They will be more severe and long-lasting than those for those who have used less or for a shorter time.

A person’s overall health can also affect the withdrawal process. People with underlying health conditions, such as mental health disorders or heart problems, may experience more severe withdrawal symptoms.

Form of cocaine used: crack vs powder cocaine.

The way cocaine is used can also affect the withdrawal timeline. Crack cocaine, which is smoked, enters the bloodstream quickly and leaves the body faster. This leads to a quicker onset of withdrawal symptoms.

These symptoms may be more intense but shorter-lived. In contrast, snorted cocaine enters the bloodstream more slowly and leaves the body more gradually. This may result in a slower onset of withdrawal symptoms that last longer.

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What Happens After Cocaine Detox?

While cocaine detox is a crucial first step in the recovery process, it is not a cure for cocaine addiction. Detox offers those recovering from this substance use disorder the opportunity to safely remove cocaine from their system, establishing a solid foundation for long-term recovery.

Once you have completed the detox process, it is recommended that you move on to additional levels of care. These treatment programs can help you continue to build essential skills and tools for maintaining your sobriety.

Residential Treatment

Residential treatment is inpatient care. It provides 24-hour supervision and support in a structured, home-like setting. It’s often used for people who need more intensive treatment than what can be provided in an outpatient setting.

This level of care is often best suited for those with more severe cocaine addictions. It can also be a crucial form of support for individuals who are struggling with co-occurring disorders and require more intensive care.

Partial Hospitalization Program

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) are an intensive form of outpatient treatment. These provide a structured program of services during the day while allowing you to return home each night. PHPs are often considered a step-down level of care from inpatient hospitalization. They can also be used as a step-up level of care from traditional outpatient therapy.

Intensive Outpatient Program

An IOP is a structured treatment program. It offers intense therapy and support for people with addictions that require more care than standard outpatient treatment. This level of care typically involves meeting with a therapist once or twice a week for an hour. IOPs offer a more flexible but still intensive form of treatment compared to other levels of care.

Outpatient Program

An outpatient program is a type of treatment program that allows individuals to receive care while living at home. This is in contrast to inpatient programs, which require patients to stay at a treatment facility overnight.

Aftercare

Aftercare helps people in recovery navigate the challenges of daily life and avoid falling back into substance abuse. Some of the most common forms of aftercare include therapy, support groups, sober living, and alumni programs.

What Therapies Are Used in Cocaine Treatment?

There are several therapies that are used for treating coke withdrawal symptoms and addiction. This includes both evidence-based and holistic therapies. Both of these forms of therapy can be crucial for aiding in the cocaine recovery process.

At Royal Life Centers, we utilize several therapies in our treatment approach. This allows us to ensure our guests are receiving the best care possible. With access to a variety of therapy options, you will be able to heal in mind, body, and spirit.

Evidence-based Therapies for Cocaine Addiction

There are several evidence-based therapies that we use at Royal Life Centers. When treating cocaine addiction, these therapies can be very effective in helping our guests learn to manage their cravings and mental health symptoms.

Some of the evidence-based therapies you will be able to participate in at our program include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This is a type of talk therapy. It is designed to help people identify and change negative patterns of thinking. These patterns often contribute to emotional and behavioral problems, including substance abuse.
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI): This is a technique used by many addiction recovery counselors. It aims to help people find the drive to make positive changes. It uses techniques like open-ended questions, reflections, and affirmations.
  • Individual Therapy: This form of therapy provides a safe and confidential space for you to work with a therapist to explore the root causes of your addiction and build the skills you need to maintain your sobriety.
  • Group Therapy: This is a powerful tool for addiction recovery. It provides a safe and supportive space for those in recovery. During each session, you will be able to share your experiences, struggles, and successes with others who understand.

Holistic Therapies for Cocaine Addiction

At Royal Life Centers, we believe that holistic care is just as essential as evidence-based therapies. These treatment activities provide our guests with the opportunity to reconnect with themselves on a spiritual level. This can be essential for their emotional well-being throughout the recovery process.

There are several holistic therapies that you can expect to participate in through our treatment programs, including:

  • Yoga/Meditation: These can be powerful tools to support addiction recovery. These techniques can help reduce stress, improve mindfulness and self-awareness, and promote your physical health during recovery.
  • Expressive Arts Therapy: This is a form of therapy that uses the creative process to help people in addiction recovery. This form of therapy provides them with the opportunity to explore their emotions, improve their mental health, and cope with difficult experiences.
  • Adventure Therapy: This is a form of experiential therapy that incorporates outdoor activities, challenges, and nature into the treatment process for addiction.

Can I Detox from Cocaine On My Own?

The best detox for cocaine is one that is done under careful medical supervision. Attempting to detox from this substance on your own can lead to dangerous consequences. Many of the withdrawal symptoms associated with cocaine can become severe if not properly managed.

While physical coke withdrawal symptoms are not usually deadly on their own, the mental side effects that can occur during detox can be. Many people who stop cocaine use after developing an addiction to it develop suicidal.

Without professional observation and support, these individuals may either act on these feelings or relapse by using cocaine to try and get rid of them. In order to avoid this, detox is best done in a professional treatment setting.

What’s the Best Way to Get Through Cocaine Withdrawal?

Cocaine withdrawal can be a difficult experience, but with the right support and treatment, recovery is possible. At Royal Life Centers, we take a whole-health approach to recovery. This means we prioritize not just our guests’ physical health but their emotional well-being, as well.

At The Haven Detox, your recovery is our first priority. We work with you to build an individualized treatment plan that caters to each of your specific care needs. If you are ready to get started on the path to sobriety, reach out to us. We will offer you the expertise and guidance you need to begin your recovery journey as soon as today.

Author Royal Life Centers Writers

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