A cocaine addiction can be treated through professional care, and it’s important to get the help that is needed before it’s too late.

Banyan Treatment Center in Massachusetts can effectively treat this addiction, and our cocaine treatment program utilizes unique therapies that are tailored to the individual and their needs. Our drug and alcohol treatment center is devoted to helping people get back on track and start fresh. 

What Is Cocaine Made Of  

Cocaine is an addictive drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant. These leaves have been chewed on by people in South America for thousands of years and are known for their stimulating effects. Cocaine hydrochloride is the purified chemical created when cocaine is extracted from coca leaves. This was first isolated from the plant over 100 years ago. 

In fact, the early 1900s saw this pure cocaine as the active ingredient in a wide variety of tonics and elixirs and was believed to be effective in treating a number of illnesses. Surgeons even utilized it as a substitute for local anesthetic, finding it useful in managing the pain of their patients. 

Since then, the risks associated with this substance have become more well-known in the mainstream and medical fields. It is now classified as a Schedule II drug, meaning that its high potential for addiction and abuse restrict it to legitimate medical uses, where a prescription and close monitoring can be provided. Read on to learn more about the risks that recreational users face when taking cocaine.  

Why Is Cocaine Dangerous? 

There are a number of examples, ranging from its addictive nature to its acute effects on the body and the risk of overdose. A developed cocaine dependency can severely impact all aspects of an individual’s life, and this addiction should be taken seriously.  

Since the time of its use as medicine, a wide array of cocaine dangers have been acknowledged in the medical and legal realms, including: 

  • Numerous risk factors of addiction: A unique aspect of cocaine addiction is the effect that it has on the brain. It blocks the absorption of dopamine, the pleasure chemical that gives people a sense of euphoria. When the high dissipates, these dopamine levels decrease as well, leading to intense feelings of anxiety. In the case of cocaine, the brain is even more sensitive to this drop, making a person's reactions to everyday stress that much more drastic. To relieve this, higher doses of cocaine could be required each time it is used, and the periods without using it can feel debilitating. 
  • Heart and organ damage: Cocaine’s blood vessel constricting qualities and heart rate-raising abilities can induce cardiac arrest. Also, long-term cocaine addiction can increase one’s susceptibility to strokes and autoimmune diseases. 
  • Seizures: This form of addiction is a very common cause of drug-related seizures. While they are generalized in most cases, they can still result in permanent brain damage and even death.  
  • Disruptive mood changes: Cocaine abuse can result in a variety of visible changes to a user's mental well-being. It is infamous for inducing feelings of aggression, paranoia, depression, and even homicidal thoughts. In fact, studies have shown that cocaine use has been associated with as many as 31% of homicide victims. 

Just one use is enough to trigger a lifetime of health and mental complications. Whether a person insists that they can stop at any time or that they only use on the weekends, the likelihood of abuse and other complications remains present. Banyan offers cocaine addiction treatment in Massachusetts, including intensive detox programs that will help the patient move through the withdrawal process as seamlessly as possible. 

Warning Signs of a Cocaine Problem 

People start to abuse cocaine for various reasons, and oftentimes this occasional recreational use can turn into a full-blown addiction before they even realize it. If you are worried about your loved one’s well-being or if you yourself are unsure if an addiction is present, pay attention to these warning signs: 

  • A tolerance to cocaine has been developed, meaning that you need more cocaine in order to feel the effects of this drug 
  • There are physical signs present that include frequent nose bleeds and a runny nose 
  • There are strong, consistent urges to use cocaine 
  • Neglecting your daily responsibilities because of your cocaine use 
  • Failure to maintain healthy relationships 
  • Lying about your cocaine use and abusing the drug when no one is around 

There are many other signs that can point to active cocaine addiction; however, if you or a loved one is experiencing any of those listed above, immediate professional help may be necessary. Entering a drug and alcohol rehab program will be one of the best decisions of your life, and it’s the start of your recovery journey. Through treatment, you will learn the necessary skills needed to transition back into everyday life, and you will have the tools in place to effectively work through challenging situations that will inevitably arise. 

Banyan Treatment Center Offers Customized Care 

Our Massachusetts addiction treatment center offers numerous levels of care that will be put into your unique recovery regimen after an initial assessment has been completed. We pride ourselves in effectively treating our patients through holistic treatment and individualized care. Cocaine addiction treatment should be taken seriously, and our team of highly skilled therapists and clinicians will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you overcome this battle.  

It’s never too late to start over and change your unhealthy behaviors. Treatment for cocaine addiction is readily available, and you can get the help you deserve at Banyan Treatment Center. We are committed to the success of your recovery journey. If you or a loved one is suffering from a cocaine addiction and don’t know where to turn, contact our team of professionals today. Our addiction programs are designed to ensure long-term sobriety, and we are here to help you truly recover. 

If you or someone that you know is struggling with cocaine abuse and dependency, we are here to help. Please contact our drug rehab in Massachusetts today. 


Most Insurance Plans Accepted

At Banyan Massachusetts, our goal is to make sure that anyone who needs treatment from drug and alcohol addiction is able to get the help needed to assist them on the road to recovery. If you don't have insurance contact us to inquire about alternate methods regarding treatment for yourself or a loved one.

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