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The use of cocaine dates back to the late 1800s. It experienced a surge in the 1970s and 1980s, and it is still popular today.
But the fact that it is popularly used does not make it any less dangerous. It is highly addictive, and it can even be deadly.
This article will review the signs someone is using cocaine so you can help a loved one who may be dealing with dependency issues.
Cocaine is one of the oldest drugs around. It is derived from the leaves of coca trees, which have been used since ancient times in certain cultures. People enjoyed its stimulating effects.
The drug was first extracted from the leaves in 1859 by German chemist Albert Neimann. It was used by many people, including respected minds like Sigmund Freud, for its ability to relieve depression and treat sexual impotence. It was even included as an ingredient in Coca-Cola.
But those who used it noticed its dangerous effects. They knew it was addictive and caused feelings of ‘skin-crawling’ and paranoia. There were also people who died from taking doses that were too high.
As the drug became more popular, more deaths occurred. It was eventually illegalized in 1922. However, many drug cartels emerged who produced it and distributed it around the world.
In 2008, cocaine was recognized as the second most trafficked illegal drug worldwide.
Cocaine is very dangerous, and it’s important to be able to detect the symptoms of cocaine use early on. When addiction is detected in its early stages, it will be easier to treat, and it will be less likely to cause lasting physical and mental conditions.
The first signs of cocaine abuse will be an increased tolerance. The person using the drug will need to take more of it to get the same effects.
Eventually, withdrawal symptoms will also begin to appear. The person’s body will get so used to having the drug in its system that it will be unable to function without it. They will realize that the only way to get rid of these symptoms is to take more of the drug. This will send them into a vicious cycle.
Symptoms of cocaine withdrawal include:
Here are some signs of cocaine abuse that may develop alongside withdrawal:
If an excessively high dose of cocaine is taken, it could cause an overdose. Here are some signs that an overdose may be occurring:
If you or a loved one is exhibiting the signs of cocaine abuse listed above, it’s time to reach out for help. There are several facilities that offer care, but which one is right for you? Prevail Recovery may be the best choice.
Prevail Recovery is an outpatient treatment center located in sunny Ft. Lauderdale, FL. We offer partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient programs. These allow patients to recover while going about their everyday lives.
Our clinic takes a dual diagnosis approach that simultaneously treats addiction and its underlying causes. We believe this is the best approach for long-term recovery.
We realize every patient is different, and we customize plans we believe are best suited to their individual situations. They may include family therapy, 12 step group therapy, nutrition, and integrative therapy. We follow up with a relapse prevention program ensuring patients get the support they need to maintain sobriety after graduating. Cocaine is a dangerous and highly addictive drug. Don’t let it reduce your quality of life. Prevail Recovery will provide the assistance you need to get past your dependency issues. Call us today to find out how you can achieve the happiness and good health you deserve.
Prevail Recovery Center is a trusted drug & alcohol treatment program in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and Knoxville, Tennessee that offers individualized, evidence-based programming.
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