Cocaine Recovery Resources

Comprehensive recovery resources for cocaine addiction using evidence-based therapies, behavioral interventions, and specialized support. Our New Jersey sober living provides the structured environment essential for lasting cocaine recovery.

Understanding Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug that affects the brain's reward system by flooding it with dopamine. This creates intense euphoria but also leads to rapid tolerance and compulsive use. Cocaine addiction can develop quickly and has serious health consequences.

Unlike some substances, there are currently no FDA-approved medications for cocaine addiction, making behavioral therapies and comprehensive support crucial for recovery.

Types of Cocaine

Different forms of cocaine have varying effects and risks

Powder cocaine (cocaine hydrochloride)
Crack cocaine (freebase)
Cocaine paste
Speedball (cocaine + heroin)
Cocaethylene (cocaine + alcohol)
Signs of Cocaine Use

Physical and behavioral indicators of cocaine abuse

Dilated pupils
Runny nose or frequent sniffing
Nosebleeds or nasal damage
Hyperactivity and restlessness
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Increased body temperature
Excessive talking or rambling
Grandiose sense of confidence
Decreased appetite and weight loss
Burn marks on fingers or lips (crack)
Possession of drug paraphernalia
Erratic or aggressive behavior
Effects of Cocaine Use

Understanding the short-term and long-term health consequences

Short-Term Effects

Intense euphoria and energy
Increased alertness and focus
Decreased appetite
Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Constricted blood vessels
Increased body temperature
Dilated pupils
Hyperstimulation
Paranoia and anxiety
Aggressive or violent behavior

Long-Term Effects

Cardiovascular damage (heart attack, stroke)
Respiratory problems (lung damage)
Neurological damage
Severe mental health issues
Nasal damage and loss of smell
Gastrointestinal complications
Sexual dysfunction
Increased risk of infectious diseases
Malnutrition and severe weight loss
Movement disorders
Cocaine Withdrawal

While not physically dangerous, cocaine withdrawal can be psychologically challenging

Withdrawal Timeline:

Hours 1-3 (Crash)

Exhaustion, depression, increased appetite

Days 1-7 (Acute)

Severe cravings, mood swings, sleep issues

Weeks 2-4 (Subacute)

Gradual improvement, occasional cravings

Common Symptoms:

Severe depression
Intense cravings
Extreme fatigue and exhaustion
Increased appetite
Sleep disturbances and vivid dreams
Psychomotor agitation or retardation

Important: While cocaine withdrawal is not typically life-threatening, the risk of suicide during severe depression is significant. Professional monitoring and support are essential.

Evidence-Based Treatment Approaches

Behavioral therapies are the most effective treatments for cocaine addiction

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
High

Helps identify triggers and develop coping strategies

Contingency Management
High

Reward-based system for maintaining abstinence

Matrix Model
Moderate-High

Combination of behavioral therapy, family education, and support groups

Motivational Interviewing
Moderate

Enhances motivation to change and enter treatment

Community Reinforcement Approach
Moderate-High

Makes sober living more rewarding than drug use

12-Step Facilitation
Moderate

Encourages participation in peer support groups

Cocaine Recovery Timeline

Recovery from cocaine addiction requires ongoing commitment and support

1

Immediate Stabilization (1-7 days)

Medical evaluation, withdrawal support, nutrition restoration, and safety planning. Focus on physical stabilization and preparation for treatment.

2

Intensive Treatment Phase (30-90 days)

Comprehensive behavioral therapy, skill development, trigger identification, relapse prevention planning, and addressing co-occurring disorders.

3

Ongoing Recovery (Long-term)

Continued therapy, peer support participation, lifestyle changes, ongoing monitoring, and building a sustainable recovery foundation.

Cocaine Overdose Emergency

Signs of Cocaine Overdose:

  • • Chest pain or heart attack
  • • Difficulty breathing
  • • Extremely high body temperature
  • • Seizures
  • • Stroke symptoms
  • • Loss of consciousness
  • • Severe agitation or paranoia
  • • Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Emergency Actions:

  1. Call 911 immediately
  2. Keep the person calm and cool
  3. Monitor breathing and heart rate
  4. Do not give food or water
  5. Stay with person until help arrives
  6. Provide information to paramedics

EMERGENCY: Cocaine overdose can be fatal. Immediate medical attention is critical. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve.

Recovery from Cocaine Addiction is Possible

While cocaine addiction is challenging, evidence-based behavioral therapies and comprehensive support have helped countless people achieve lasting recovery.

Available 24/7 • Completely Confidential • Evidence-Based Treatment