Cocaine withdrawal symptoms can be challenging to endure, often including fatigue, depression, intense cravings, agitation, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms highlight the importance of seeking professional support during the detox process. Woodland Recovery Center is a trusted drug detox center dedicated to providing comprehensive care for people with cocaine addiction.
Our specialized cocaine detox programs provide a supportive environment, helping individuals manage withdrawal symptoms effectively and take the first step toward lasting recovery. If you or someone you care about might benefit from detox and a cocaine addiction treatment program, contact our team today by calling 662.222.2989.
The Effects of Cocaine Use on the Body
Cocaine is a drug that leaves the body relatively quickly, but that doesn’t mean it’s undetectable for longer periods through certain tests. The “half-life” of cocaine—how long it takes for half the drug to be eliminated from the system—is approximately 90 minutes. While this might sound fast, it’s important to consider it in relation to how long the effects of cocaine typically last.
The duration of a cocaine high depends on both the method of use and the amount consumed. Cocaine is commonly used in three ways: snorting, smoking, or injecting.
Each method delivers varying intensities and durations of its effects, which are further influenced by the frequency and quantity of use. Some facts about the effects of cocaine use include:
- Snorting cocaine can affect you for between fifteen and thirty minutes
- Injecting cocaine causes a brief euphoria within 30 seconds, lasting up to 20 minutes
- Smoking cocaine nearly immediately affects someone and lasts between five and ten minutes
These methods are also affected by the amount of cocaine consumed and individual physiological differences. The human body generally tolerates varying levels of most substances based on their development over time.
Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms
The cocaine withdrawal stage can last ten weeks, a little longer than two months. Common cocaine withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Depression
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Insomnia
- An intense cocaine craving
- Paranoia and anger outbursts
- Weight loss
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Woodland Recovery Center offers specialized programs to help people navigate the challenges of cocaine withdrawal. Our dedicated team of multidisciplinary experts is committed to guiding you toward a successful recovery and a healthier future.
What Happens During Cocaine Withdrawal
Cocaine withdrawal can vary drastically from person to person but usually lasts anywhere from a few days to several weeks. The most important thing to remember during withdrawal is that it will eventually pass with the help of proper medical care and professional counseling. Do not be discouraged or overwhelmed—seek support in whatever capacity works best for you so you can make a full recovery.
Cocaine Crash
The first stage of withdrawal is known as a “crash.” This occurs when cocaine use is abruptly stopped, often triggering this phase quickly. The severity and onset of the crash depend on the amount and frequency of cocaine use. If a person is snorting cocaine and experiencing a high of thirty minutes, they may begin doing cocaine shortly after the initial dose. The crash can happen within an hour or a few days after stopping cocaine use. It occurs when the body is without cocaine, and the brain works to return to normal dopamine levels.
However, those normal levels don’t feel normal due to the constant cocaine use. The crash brings with it several side effects, including:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Feeling exhausted in general
- Hunger and an increased appetite in general
- Depression
- A general lack of motivation
One of the more confusing aspects of a cocaine crash is that it can lead to a reduced desire for the drug. This may occur within hours or within a few days after use and can feel similar to a typical alcohol hangover. However, the next stage, known as the full withdrawal phase, will be significantly more intense and uncomfortable.
The End of Cocaine Withdrawal
Sometimes called extinction, this is the last stage of cocaine withdrawal. The final phase of the cocaine detox timeline can last up to twenty-eight weeks. That’s potentially around seven months of occasional cravings to consume cocaine again. It can also come with a lack of motivation or slight depression.
Overcoming cocaine withdrawal can be an incredibly difficult journey. For those struggling with addiction, quitting cocaine often means enduring up to seven months of intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This process presents numerous physical and emotional challenges as people work to recover control over their lives.
One of the challenges to staying sober is external influence. That’s a significant part of what will influence the urges during the final stages of cocaine withdrawal, and it’s a tough one. Maybe an object reminds you of cocaine or even an emotion you had. Trying to move past these cues and reframe your life in a way that cocaine isn’t featured can be stressful, discouraging, and impossible.
So, how do people do it? How do they get past all those roadblocks and start moving freely again? Asking these questions is a big part of it. Another way is to possess the strength for change. You have the strength. We know you do. If you need cocaine addiction treatment, our Woodland Recovery Center team can help.
The Benefits of Detox in Easing Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms
Detoxing from cocaine on your own can be dangerous and lead to relapse. At Woodland Recovery Center, we have a team of medical professionals who understand the complexities of cocaine withdrawal and can provide appropriate support and care. Our detox programs are designed to help people safely rid their bodies of harmful substances while minimizing discomfort and managing potential complications.
In addition to physical care, our treatment programs also offer vital psychotherapy resources to help individuals address underlying issues that may contribute to addiction. By addressing these root causes, we can better equip our clients with the tools they need for long-term recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cocaine Detox
Cocaine detox can be a challenging but necessary first step toward recovery. Many people have questions about what to expect during this process, and understanding the answers can help ease concerns and prepare individuals for a successful detox experience.
What is cocaine detox?
Cocaine detox is the process where the body eliminates all traces of cocaine. This period allows individuals to clear their system of the drug, which typically involves some withdrawal symptoms as the body adjusts.
How long does detox take?
The timeline for cocaine detox varies for each person but usually lasts about seven to 10 days. Some withdrawal symptoms may ease after this time, while others, like cravings, could persist longer.
What are the common withdrawal symptoms?
During cocaine detox, individuals may experience fatigue, depression, anxiety, irritability, and strong cravings for the drug. These symptoms can vary in intensity depending on how long and how heavily the person has used cocaine.
Is detox safe to do at home?
Detoxing at home is not recommended because symptoms can become severe, and without professional support, there is an increased risk of relapse. A supervised detox program ensures safety and provides medical and emotional support.
What happens after detox?
Detox is just the first step. After detox, continued treatment through therapy, counseling, or rehab programs is essential to address the root causes of addiction and build a sustainable recovery plan.
Call Woodland Recovery Center and Start the First Step in Your Recovery Journey
Our Woodland Recovery Center team understands that entering addiction treatment can feel intimidating. That’s why our comprehensive care for cocaine addiction is designed to give people the tools they need to begin their recovery. We’re here to help you every step of the way, from detox and beyond. Call us today at 662.222.2989 or contact us online to learn more about our treatment options and take the first step to lasting recovery.