Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant that can cause both physical and psychological dependence. The first step in cocaine use disorder treatment is to go through cocaine withdrawal, otherwise known as the effects of cocaine detox. The withdrawal process produces uncomfortable and even potentially dangerous physical symptoms. Therefore, you may not want to complete the process without medical supervision at a cocaine detox center.
Do you need help getting yourself off cocaine? Our medical staff is well-trained in caring for people with cocaine addiction. Call Serenity House Detox & Recovery today at 866.294.5306 for more information about our detox center.
Timeline and Effects of Cocaine Detox
When a person uses drugs or alcohol regularly and develops a physical dependence on a substance, stopping use can cause several side effects. Technically speaking, withdrawal begins within hours after the last use. Many cocaine users will go to extreme measures to secure their next dose of cocaine, as they want to prevent the uncomfortable physical and mental symptoms of withdrawal.
Many medical professions refer to phase 1 as the crash. It can last between several hours and several days. Physical symptoms to expect during this phase include fatigue, insomnia, cravings. Patients may also experience psychological detox symptoms at this point, such as paranoia, depression, and feeling disoriented.
Phase 2 typically lasts up to 10 weeks. However, the individual’s general health, habitual or heavy use affect the detox timeline. Physical symptoms associated with phase two include:
- Intense cravings
- Increased appetite
- Insomnia
- General aches and pains
- Headache
- Fatigue
Nightmares, depression, anger, severe paranoia, and mood swings are the most common mental and emotional symptoms patients experience during phase 2.
Phase 3 may be referred to as extinction. At this point, the body has cleared itself of the drug, and patients no longer experience physical side effects. It can last for many months but gets easier to cope with as the weeks go past.
However, sporadic cravings for cocaine and general feelings of dissatisfaction can continue for some time. A professional detox center can address these psychological symptoms of addiction through behavioral therapies and sobriety support.
The Most Dangerous Side Effect of Cocaine Detox May Be Overdose
Detoxing from substances such as alcohol and opioids can cause life-threatening symptoms. While extreme reactions to cocaine detox are rare, they can happen. However, the most significant concern is overdose.
The body builds up a tolerance for cocaine or any other drug when someone ingests it regularly. Over time the user needs more and more of the substance to achieve the wanted effects. If a relapse occurs and the addict takes the same amount of cocaine they had grown used to before going through withdrawal, they are at risk for a fatal overdose.
Detox programs that assist patients in their transition to ongoing rehab services are the best protection against relapse overdose.
Benefits of a Medically Supervised Cocaine Detox Center
Going through cocaine withdrawal is physically and emotionally challenging at best. Symptoms can be intense for some patients, causing a high level of emotional and physical distress that can make it nearly impossible to succeed alone.
A medically supervised detox program keeps patients safe and makes the detox process more comfortable. Participants have daily contact with their medical team and other staff members to receive the medical and emotional support they need during this challenging process.
With the guidance of a qualified cocaine detox center, individuals can start learning new coping mechanisms that will help them live free of addiction. Detoxing is the first step to recovery. However, without a commitment to continued treatment, long-term sobriety is highly unlikely.
Get Professional Support at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida
It’s time to find treatment for your cocaine addiction. Call Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida at 866.294.5306 for the support you need and deserve to free yourself from cocaine addiction.
