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Cocaine Detox
Cocaine detox can be used in general conversation to mean stopping taking cocaine for a day or so, but cocaine detox is also used to describe the first stage of the process in treating a cocaine addiction.
Cocaine belongs to a class of drugs know as a stimulant and this means it is similar to amphetamine. Cocaine is widely used as a recreational drug but also for medicinal pain relief. It is highly addictive and many people start just to experiment but soon become addicted and cannot stop. At this stage some are able with the help of friends to detox on their own, but this can be dangerous and it is not easy to do.
In fact it can be dangerous to try and stop taking cocaine on your own.
When you stop taking cocaine suddenly you can experience many different side effects including depression, increased drug craving, increased appetite, hypersomnolence and a need for increased sleep. People who try this often refer to this as ‘the crash’ and it lasts for typically 2-4 days.
These initial cocaine withdrawal syndromes can be reduced with some medication such as chlordiazepoxide if prescribed by a doctor as this must not be used for too long with a cocaine addiction. Cocaine withdrawal will be harder and more uncomfortable if you do not eat and drink enough, but when going through the ‘crash’ these things are not highest in your thoughts. Professional help, or supportive friends will help ensure you look after your needs of sleep and food and actually help your recovery process.
Assuming you get through the first week or so, you need to be aware that some of the withdrawal symptoms can return after months or years and you need to have a coping strategy in place for this. Many people find some kind of counselling helpful if not essential to evolve strategies for coping with these withdrawal symptoms.
Typical withdrawal symptoms for the cocaine user include a depressed mood, lethargy, anhedonia and intense cravings. The best form of ‘treatment’ for this is meeting with other people in recovery and forming strategies for coping with these cravings when they occur
So what is the best way of stopping taking cocaine? If you have tried to give up cocaine but failed, then seek help from a trained addictions counsellor who can help you find a suitable place to detox safely and ensure you have the ongoing support you need.