Drug abuse is still a very real and serious problem in the United States. Both prescription drugs and “street” drugs are being abused in higher numbers every day.
Cocaine is one example of a “street” drug. Cocaine is extracted from the coca plant, which is mainly grown in South America. It is illegal to grow or possess coca plants, as well as cocaine, in the United States.
Cocaine is made by grinding, mashing, or pulverizing coca leaves to extract the juices. The juices are then mixed with chemicals and other substances to form cocaine hydrochloride. This is cocaine at its purest level.
Cocaine is usually converted to liquid or powder form, for greater ease of distribution. The powder is usually snorted or rubbed onto the gums, while the liquid may be injected directly into a vein. Frequently, the powder will be heated, which converts it back to a purer form. The residue formed by this heating process produces a hard substance known as a “rock”, and often referred to as “crack”.
Cocaine acts as a stimulant, causing the user to experience a state of euphoria or well-being. At the same time, energy levels seem to increase, and it appears as though the mental faculties are sharper. Senses are heightened, also, making every feeling seem more intense.
Because the “good” feelings only last approximately 30 minutes, the user may use more and more cocaine, or use it more frequently, in an attempt to hold on to those feelings. However, increased use can lead to paranoia, anxiety, and restlessness.
Long term effects of cocaine use include abnormal heartbeat, stroke, seizures, and eventually may lead to death. The listed symptoms are also present when cocaine overdose occurs.
Cocaine is highly addictive, because the user wants to continue experiencing what he or she perceives to be the positive effects of the cocaine. Because cocaine is illegal to possess, purchase, or sell, the only way to get more cocaine is by breaking the law.
Cocaine addiction can lead to job loss, the breakdown of a family unit, and possibly criminal prosecution. Because of this, it is important for the cocaine user to recognize that a problem exists, and seek cocaine drug abuse help.
Drug treatment centers that offer facilities that can treat the physical problems caused by cocaine abuse and withdrawal, then address the addiction and abuse issue can help the cocaine user overcome the addiction and start life again without cocaine abuse.
Drug abuse statistics show that cocaine use and addiction can be caused by peer pressure, socio-economic status, location (urban vs. suburban or rural), and even from one time of experimenting with this highly-addictive drug. No matter what the reason for starting cocaine use, the goal should be to break the abuse and addiction cycle.
Let us help you achieve that goal. Please contact us at 1-800-559-9503 or visit our website at www.drugabusehelp.com. We want to help you live a cocaine-free life.
