Cocaine Detoxification

Cocaine is a highly addictive substance derived from the leaves of coca plants, and it produces euphoric effects that can vary in intensity and duration depending on how the drug is administered. One method of cocaine use involves snorting or injecting the powdered form of the drug. Another method involves smoking the freebase form that has been processed for this purpose, known as crack cocaine.

Regardless of how the drug is administered, the addictive chemicals create changes in the brain and body that will require professional cocaine detoxification to safely remove these chemicals from the body and to control any withdrawal symptoms that occur.

Generally, cocaine detoxification produces only minor withdrawal symptoms, but the "crash" that occurs within the first few days of abstinence can include depression, insomnia, anxiety, and cravings. Within a few weeks after withdrawal these symptoms can intensify and additional symptoms such as excessive appetite, abdominal pains, tremors and muscle pain can occur. In order to control these symptoms, medical cocaine detoxification provides medications such as antidepressants, tranquilizers, bezodiapines or beta-blockers such as propanolol.

Following successful cocaine detoxification, the individual should enroll in a program that addresses the mental aspect of addiction with behavior modification classes, group or individual counseling sessions, family support services and cognitive skills training.

For those who prefer a drug-free approach to treatment, cocaine detoxification can be accomplished with a medically supervised holistic program that provides nutritional guidance, vitamins, exercise and saunas. This is also an effective method of cocaine detoxification, but must also be followed by a rehabilitation program that addresses the psychological aspects of the addiction.

Regardless of which approach to cocaine detoxification you choose, successful recovery is dependent on your commitment to stay in the program as long as necessary to ensure recovery, avoid relapse and to enjoy a future that is free from the negative consequences of addiction.

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