Cocaine Abuse

Cocaine—currently the most abused stimulant in the United States—is a highly addictive and powerful drug that stimulates the central nervous system to create feelings of euphoria, alertness, and increased energy. It causes these effects by increasing dopamine levels in the brain and is typically snorted, injected, or smoked.

Street names include coke, blow, snow, and 8-balls.

Cocaine addiction has many negative effects on the body. It constricts blood vessels, dilates pupils, and raises body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. Cocaine abusers often experience acute heart- or brain-related emergencies like heart attacks.

Cocaine withdrawal can be extreme and often includes agitation, fatigue, sickness, and increased appetite. Many consider a medically supervised detox when beginning treatment for cocaine addiction.

Signs of Cocaine Addiction:

  • Red, bloodshot eyes
  • Runny nose or frequent sniffing
  • Weight loss
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure
  • Nosebleeds
  • Altered motor activities
  • Stealing, lying, or financial problems
  • Loss of interest in family or friends
  • Poor work or school performance
  • Erratic behavior
  • Auditory hallucinations
  • Paranoia

If you or a loved one suffers from cocaine addiction, please contact Fort Lauderdale Behavioral Health Center at 954-734-2001. We accept Medicare and most other private insurances and have reasonable self-pay rates.

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