Cocaine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that affects the brain’s reward pathway by activating the release of dopamine. This pathway is located in an area of the midbrain called the ventral tegmental area and also reaches the nucleus accumbens, one of the brain’s main reward areas.1 Dopamine is sent from one neuron to another to relay messages to each other, a process vital for basic functions like sleeping and eating and regulating mood. Drugs like cocaine can inhibit this process of communication, inhibiting these functions and enforcing a false sense of reward that contributes to addiction. At our private rehab center, we offer luxury cocaine addiction treatment in Florida that helps people recover from drug dependence.
Signs of Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine primarily exerts its effects on the brain by interfering with the reuptake of neurotransmitters, specifically dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Upon ingestion, cocaine blocks the reuptake transporters responsible for recycling these neurotransmitters in the synapses, leading to an accumulation of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine in the synaptic cleft.
This increased concentration intensifies and prolongs the signaling between neurons. The heightened dopamine levels contribute to the euphoric sensations associated with cocaine use.
Additionally, cocaine’s impact on norepinephrine contributes to increased alertness and arousal. However, the excessive stimulation of the brain’s reward system can lead to addictive behaviors and various adverse effects on mental and physical health, making cocaine use a serious concern. The effects of cocaine addiction are severe and are often physically evident.
The most common signs of cocaine abuse include:
- Increased energy
- Hypersensitivity to light, sound, and touch
- Dilated pupils
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Erratic behavior
- Increased blood pressure and temperature
- Increased heart rate
- Loss of appetite
People who struggle with cocaine abuse may become secretive about their behavior. Their friend groups may change and often consist of others who engage in substance abuse as well. They may also switch the topic or become defensive at any mention of their cocaine use. Without cocaine treatment, a person dependent on this drug is also at high risk of overdosing. Cocaine overdose symptoms are dangerous and usually include respiratory depression, chest pains, seizures, paranoia, and more.
Cocaine Statistics
Below are some statistics about cocaine that shed light on the prevalence of use in the United States.
- 1.7% (or about 4.8 million people) of people aged 12 or older in 2021 reported using cocaine in the past 12 months (2021).2
- An estimated 0.5% of 8th graders, 0.3% of 10th graders, and 1.5% of 12th graders reported using cocaine in the last 12 months in 2022.3
- In 2021, 0.5% (or about 1.4 million people) of people aged 12 or older had a cocaine use disorder in the past year.2
- Approximately 24,486 people died from an overdose involving cocaine in 2021.4
In recognizing the sobering reality reflected in these statistics, it becomes evident that accessible and effective treatment for cocaine addiction is a vital necessity for those seeking recovery.
Our Private Cocaine Rehab in Florida
Our cocaine addiction treatment center combines medical detoxification with a comprehensive continuum of care to address the unique needs of individuals seeking recovery in a luxurious setting. The process begins with a medically supervised detox, ensuring a safe and comfortable withdrawal from cocaine.
Following detox, individuals have access to various levels of care, including residential treatment, partial hospitalization program (PHP), and intensive outpatient program (IOP). Residential treatment provides a supportive and immersive environment, allowing clients to focus solely on their recovery within a high-end setting.
The PHP offers a structured day program with therapeutic interventions while allowing individuals to reside in a comfortable environment. IOP allows for greater flexibility, enabling clients to gradually transition back into their daily lives while receiving ongoing support.
These levels of care are complemented by evidence-based psychotherapy services, holistic approaches, and amenities tailored to enhance the overall well-being of individuals undergoing cocaine addiction treatment at our Palm Beach addiction center.
For more information about our private addiction treatment in Palm Beach, contact Seaside Palm Beach today, and an admissions specialist can help you get started.
Source:
- NIH – How does cocaine produce its effects?
- SAMHSA – Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
- Monitoring the Future – Cocaine: Trends in Last 12 Months Prevalence of Use in 8th, 10th, and 12th Grade
- CDC – About Underlying Cause of Death, 1999-2020
