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Treatment for Cocaine Abuse

There are many services on offer for those in need of treatment for their use of cocaine. Individuals concerned about their cocaine use can approach their GP or private, voluntary organisations and self-help groups.

The type of care given to an individual depends on the drug used. Addiction to cocaine can affect the mind and body of an individual. Treatment tends to address both the psychological and physical dependency that is usually present in cocaine addictions.

Physically the drug changes the chemical makeup of the brain by creating surplus amounts of a hormone called dopamine. This initially makes the user feel a rise in heart rate, energy and positive feelings. There is a dip in these feelings as dopamine depletes and the person may feel depressed, irritable and motivated to use cocaine again.

Long-term physical effects are a result of the negative impact of constant cocaine use. In time the brain produces less dopamine due to the surplus amounts created while cocaine is taken. As a result of the reduced dopamine the person may experience restlessness, paranoia and mood swings. These can make individuals turn to cocaine more often and a cycle develops.

Psychologically the user may lack confidence, feel panicked, anxious and depressed.

Individuals, whether visiting their GP or attending a private centre, are assessed to establish their treatment. Cocaine withdrawal can go through different phases from the initial intensity of the first few days and weeks to the longer term phase where cravings can still occur.

The initial phases can be eased by medications and all parts of the withdrawal period can be backed up by counselling and support.

Quite often cravings can be intense when withdrawing and some users prefer to stay in a residential drug treatment centre to avoid ‘triggers’ present in their homes. Some centres will offer after-care services and treatment in the community. These can also be provided by voluntary organisations.

All users react differently to withdrawal from cocaine and will likely find that a care plan tailored to their individual needs is prepared.