Cocaine Withdrawal

Cocaine Withdrawal Has Her Tied to Her Bed.

Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms

Cocaine has extremely addictive properties. When people stop using it, they typically experience various cocaine withdrawal symptoms, some of which are uncomfortable and even dangerous. Attempting to go through them alone can be incredibly difficult. The best way to overcome cocaine withdrawal is through a medically monitored detox. Detox should be followed by subsequent addiction treatment in a women’s rehab program or Men’s Rehab Program for Cocaine Detox.

Why Do People Experience Cocaine Withdrawal?

Especially in the case of long-term use, the body becomes used to consistent consumption. Since it constantly works to maintain equilibrium, suddenly stopping throws the body off balance. This causes people to suffer cocaine withdrawal.

The severity of the symptoms depends upon three main factors:

Duration of use | Average consumption | Addiction history

The Average Cocaine Withdrawal Timeline

If you or a loved one make the courageous decision to seek treatment, the process normally starts with a supervised, medically managed cocaine detox at a quality facility. Without going through a monitored detox, withdrawal could be dangerous. The following are some possible negative side effects of going through cocaine withdrawal alone:

Respiratory issues | Cardiovascular problems | Gastrointestinal complications | Complications from undiagnosed mental health issues | Increased risk of relapse

The benefits of seeking detox definitely outweigh the potential consequences of self detox. If you or a loved one choose a licensed detox facility, here’s what to expect.

Stage 1: Mild Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms

Ideally, by the time you begin detox, you’ll have stopped taking cocaine. This is the best way for medical professionals to start cleansing your body of the toxins that have built up during your use.

Within the first few hours of the cocaine withdrawal process, patients may feel more anxious and irritable. While you may feel some cocaine cravings during this stage, they’ll generally subside.

Stage 2: More Intense Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms aren’t as harsh as some other substances, from a physical standpoint. However, the psychological symptoms can be just as dangerous. During the first 24–72 hours, you may experience depression, extreme fatigue and even suicidal thoughts. More commonly, cravings and mood swings may increase, and it may be more difficult to sleep.

Stage 3: Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms Begin to Subside

By the beginning of the third stage, withdrawal symptoms—while still present—begin to taper off. Most detox programs end at this point, allowing patients to transition into addiction treatment. For further stabilization, some facilities have partial hospitalization programs available.

The Next Steps

Even though detox eliminates the toxins from your body, it’s important to continue with a comprehensive cocaine addiction treatment program. The drugs might be gone, but patients still have to address the negative behaviors that contributed to their addiction. The best rehabilitation centers offer evidence-based programs and therapies to change behaviors and teach positive coping mechanisms that don’t involve cocaine use. For example, the women’s rehab program FL residents can count on offers incredible rehabilitation services to women struggling with addiction. 

If you or a loved one is struggling with cocaine abuse or addiction, there’s hope for a positive future. Reach out to us today to get the help you need.