Steps to Detox From Cocaine

 


During a cocaine detox treatment, you'll feel better and begin to think clearly again. After a few days of withdrawal, the body will start functioning at an average level. It will take up to three weeks to fully detox. Once the detoxification process is complete, the withdrawal symptoms may reappear in the coming months, but by then, you should have clearer mind and body. Here are some steps to detox from cocaine:

Treatment Options For Cocaine Addiction

If you're looking for a treatment for cocaine addiction, you have a few options. Residential treatment, otherwise known as an inpatient rehab, offers intensive treatment, but without the 24-hour monitoring. Intensive outpatient treatment is more appropriate for milder cases of cocaine addiction. Intensive outpatient treatment often refers to long-term aftercare. Intensive outpatient programs are not for people with severe addiction profiles, but may be recommended after partial hospitalization.

Those with cocaine addiction may engage in compulsive behaviors, including spending a lot of time with friends or in environments where drug use is common. Many of these people will also feel little support from their family, resulting in a cycle of relapses. Some may even be convinced they can control their cocaine use, and then experience unpleasant side effects when they stop using it. Eventually, the effects will wear off, and they will need larger doses.

Stages Of Cocaine Detox

The most crucial step to completing cocaine detox is to understand the various stages of the addiction. The drug affects the pleasure pathways in the brain, so those who use it may find things they normally enjoy boring and bland. Often, these cravings will result in insomnia. The body will also go through a period of withdrawal, during which time cravings for cocaine will increase and sleep will be elusive. This cycle can continue for a number of weeks.

The final stage of cocaine detox is called extinction. During this phase of detox, the drug is eliminated from the body and cravings will gradually disappear. During this phase, the most common trigger for cravings are external cues such as the person or place where the drug was used. Coping skills and a support system are critical for preventing relapse. In the stages leading up to extinction, cocaine addicts must learn to identify and avoid triggers.

Problems With Cocaine Detox

When cocaine addiction strikes, there are a number of challenges that come with the drug's withdrawal from the body. These can begin hours or days after the person has stopped using it. Fortunately, most people can handle these symptoms on their own at home. In severe cases, however, cocaine detox may be the only option. Here's what to expect during this period. Read on to learn about some of the most common problems with cocaine detox.

Withdrawal symptoms are usually worst for the first one to three days, which is known as the "crash" effect. During the following days, physical symptoms will decrease, but psychological symptoms will linger. The individual will likely be feeling angry, depressed, and agitated. The effects of cocaine withdrawal can last for weeks. Fortunately, a quality rehab program can help an individual overcome these effects and have a lasting recovery.

Treatment Options After Cocaine Detox

Although it is possible to undergo a cocaine detoxification process alone, it is not recommended, as it may lead to uncomfortable side effects. Additionally, people who attempt to stop cocaine cold turkey may experience a relapse and may even end up overdosing. Many of them may become depressed, and in some cases, this may lead to a risk of suicide. A program that includes medical detoxification and addiction treatment is a safer way to begin a recovery and prevent relapse.

While most patients experience withdrawal symptoms after their cocaine detox, some medications may be effective. These medications, known as anti-depressants, work to increase the neurotransmitter GABA. The FDA has not approved these medications for cocaine detox, but they can be helpful for individuals who are struggling to stop using cocaine. Because they can be monitored closely, they can reduce the risks of relapse. For this reason, these medications may be an important part of the treatment process.

 

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