Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine is a stimulant that acts on the central nervous system by interfering with the absorption process of dopamine, a neurotransmitter emitted by the brain. Dopamine is released as part of the brain's biological reward system and causes a natural high, inducing the user to have feelings of euphoria and pleasure. By blocking the absorption of dopamine, cocaine users feel a prolonged and exaggerated sense of euphoria. When dopamine is depleted cocaine users must increase their intake to feel physically and emotionally normal; as a result, many users fall into depression when they are not under the influence of the drug. Symptoms of cocaine use include dilated pupils, increased body temperature, high blood pressure, and increased heart rate, all of which can lead to serious health problems. Cocaine is normally a white powder that appears similar to sugar and may be used in many different ways, such as sniffing/snorting, injecting, and smoking. As a highly addictive drug, users often cannot control how much cocaine they use after their first exposure.
Consequences
Users report restlessness, anxiety, and irritability. Many psychologists have concluded that cocaine has a powerful neuropsychological effect and many addicts continue to use the drug even while suffering from its harmful consequences. There are even cases of sudden death due to cocaine use; however, it is impossible to discern who is prone to sudden cocaine death. High doses of cocaine may cause extreme paranoia or an aggressive state and cocaine users who inject the drug are at a high risk for HIV/AIDS and hepatitis.
Professional help is needed to seek recovery for a cocaine user who is in denial. If someone you love is using cocaine call us today. Intervention Treatment has a proven protocol of intervening and we can help your loved one get the care they need.
