[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”COCAINE ADDICTION & TREATMENT” font_container=”tag:h1|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Cocaine is a highly addictive drug that stimulates the central nervous system. When the effects begin to wear off, the feelings of euphoria quickly dissipate. As they do so, the user craves more of the drug to maintain the feeling.
CAUSES OF ADDICTION
Each person is affected differently by drugs, however, cocaine remains highly addictive among users. A survey in 2007 found that 13% of users admitted to a drug treatment center were addicted to cocaine, with 72% of that group being addicted to crack cocaine.
While there is no way to identify who will become addicted, those who have been abused as a child, have drug-addicted parents, or are polydrug users, those who use more than one drug, are more likely to develop an addiction.
Because the effects of crack cocaine take place quickly and last for a short period of time—only five to 10 minutes—crack cocaine is especially addictive. Regardless of the cause, after an addiction has been formed, there are various treatment options.
BEHAVIOURAL TREATMENT
Traditional rehab clinics have proven to be effective at treating drug addiction. There are two basic types—inpatient and outpatient. Inpatient facilities provide room and board with the treatment and greatly reduce the risk of relapse. Outpatient facilities vary, but they basically consist of urine analysis, educational classes, and checking in with a specialist.
Many drug addicts also suffer from a mental disorder like depression or ADHD. If that is the case, finding a dual-diagnosis program that will treat both the addiction and the mental disorder is the best option.
After the treatment is completed, continued support will be needed. Attending a group like Cocaine Anonymous and receiving support from loved ones can greatly increase the odds of a successful recovery.
PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT
Currently, there are no medications approved by the FDA to treat cocaine addiction. However, there are several studies underway with promising results. Medications that are approved to treat other diseases like vigabatrin, modafinil, tiagabine, disulfiram, and topiramate are being researched as options for treating cocaine addiction.
Of these drugs, disulfiram, used to treat alcoholism, has produce more consistent results in treating cocaine abuse. New information regarding cocaine’s effect on the brain is prompting research on novel targets. This has lead researchers to test new medications that act at certain receptors for safety in humans.
Cocaine vaccines and medical treatments for overdose are also being looked at. Vaccines that block the effects of cocaine from reaching the brain are showing promising results, and medical treatments for treating overdose patients are being investigated.
Cocaine addiction is difficult for everyone involved, and finding the right treatment is the first step on the road to recovery. If you or a loved one is battling with cocaine addiction, enlist the help of a professional today.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
