Cocaine Addiction, Treatment and Recovery
There has been an enormous increase in the number of people seeking treatment for cocaine addiction since the 1980s. Treatment providers in most areas of the country report that it is the second most commonly cited drug of abuse among their clients. The majority of individuals seeking treatment smoke crack, and are likely to be poly-drug users, or users of more than one substance.
Crack Cocaine Addiction is Widespread
The widespread abuse of crack cocaine has stimulated extensive efforts to develop treatment programs for this type of drug abuse. Cocaine abuse and addiction is a complex problem involving biological changes in the brain as well as a myriad of social, familial, and environmental factors. Therefore, treatment of cocaine addiction is complex, and must address a variety of problems. Like any good treatment plan, treatment strategies need to assess the psychobiological, social, and pharmacological aspects of the patient's drug abuse.
Cocaine Addiction and Impact on Health
Through the use of sophisticated technology, scientists can actually see the dynamic changes that occur in the brain as an individual takes the drug. They can observe the different brain changes that occur as a person experiences the "rush and the high" and finally, the craving of cocaine. They can also identify parts of the brain that become active when a cocaine addict sees or hears environmental stimuli that trigger the craving for cocaine. Because these types of studies pinpoint specific brain regions, they are critical to identifying targets for developing medications and treatments to treat addiction.
Cocaine and Crack Availability
Cocaine is a principal drug threat to the United States. Both powder cocaine and crack are prevalent throughout the country, and overall availability is stable. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Field Divisions report that powder cocaine and crack are readily or widely available, and most describe cocaine as the greatest drug threat to their areas. Obviously, many more residential and long-term treatment resources are needed.
Addiction Warning Signs
Signs & Symptoms of Drug Abuse
There are many different kinds of drugs and substances of abuse and for each there are usually visable and recognizable signs and symptoms of abuse. Knowing the symptoms of drug abuse and being able to check for specific signs can make the difference. more..
Cocaine Health Effects
Long Term Addiction Issues
The Fine Line Between Abuse and Addiction. The Long-term effects of cocaine encompass addiction irritation and frame of mind disturbances skittishness paranoia and auditory hallucinations. Cocaine is a severely addictive drug, with lenf term effects. more..
Drugs & Danger
Common Addiction Signs
Are you seeing posible addiction signs in a loved one's behavior or habits? Do you suspect that you might be seeing the signs and symptoms of drug addiction or alcohol abuse? There are many things you should look for that might seem innocent. more