Cocaine, also referred to as coke or blow, is a very dangerous and widely abused substance that can be found in either of two forms, being powdered or crack rock. Read on to learn more about what cocaine is, what makes it so addictive, and the signs & symptoms of use.
What is cocaine?
Cocaine is a type of drug that functions to increase the availability of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is associated with the generation of 'euphoric' emotions, the regulation of movement, and the processing of reward cues. However, it is also associated with a considerable potential for dependence and abuse.
Why is cocaine addictive?
The addictive quality of cocaine is explained by how the brain processes chemicals when cocaine is present:
Dopamine is the receptor in the brain chiefly responsible for the experience of pleasure in the body.
In the brain's normal communication process, dopamine is released into the synapse, where it binds with dopamine receptors, and then is recycled back.
When cocaine is present, the normal dopamine recycling process is blocked.
The buildup of dopamine results in an influx of pleasure, which explains why cocaine is so addictive.
Cocaine addiction occurs as a result of continuous use. The more it is abused, a higher tolerance to the drug is developed. For the addict, this means that in order to get the same result, more and more cocaine must be used. This results in addiction and greater health problems.
Signs & Symptoms of Cocaine Abuse
When it comes to the signs and symptoms associated with a cocaine user, they can be mood related, physical, behavioral, and psychological. Below you’ll find a handful of those signs & symptoms.
- Hyperactivity
- Agitation
- Loss of inhibition
- Unrestrained enthusiasm
- Increased movement (i.e. hyperactivity)
- Increased nose bleeds or runny nose, increased common colds
- Noticeable personality changes from anxiety and paranoia to irritability
- Changes in concentration and focus
- Reckless behavior
- Decreased need for sleep
Cocaine addiction is a difficult issue to deal with, and it can be extremely difficult to overcome without the help of a drug rehabilitation program. Early intervention and recognition of the signs of use or abuse of cocaine can be crucial to getting someone on the path towards recovery. Drug treatment can become a life saving measure when dealing with the long-term effects of cocaine abuse with what it does to the body.
Created specifically for those who have loved ones that struggle with addiction.