In 1885, the first isolation of the chemical compound cocaine from the leaves of the coca plant was done. Individuals in South America have used coca leaves for millennia to increase energy and minimize hunger. In the late 1800s, the people used cocaine as a local anesthetic and medicine in form of pills and beverages because of its stimulatory properties.
When taken orally, cocaine acts as a strong stimulant and also reduces appetite. Injecting or sniffing cocaine produces a strong but short-lived euphoric effect followed by prolonged period of increased energy. This euphoric effect obtained from injecting or snorting cocaine is addictive.
Crack cocaine is a chemical variant of powder cocaine and is available in crystal form. When heated, the crystals create vapor that is inhaled to create the euphoric feeling.
Why is Crack Cocaine Abused?
Crack cocaine users experience an intense high. The high is however short-lived, lasting for about 10 minutes. It is followed by a sudden crash that leaves the individual in a state of depression. Many users therefore take multiple hits of the drug successively to avoid the crush.
People who abuse crack cocaine will take every effort to get the drug regardless of its negative effects on their health, work, and family. When a person gets addicted to crack cocaine, they can never stop it without professional help. Addiction to crack is a serious medical issue. Contrary to the belief of most people, drug addiction is not caused by a lack or failure of willpower. Just as people with chronic illness require medical care, so do people addicted to crack cocaine.
Signs of Crack Abuse
If you or your loved one is exhibiting the following symptoms, crack abuse could be the cause:
- Constant need of money
- Premature aging
- Increased restlessness and paranoid behavior
- Sudden bouts of aggression
- Extreme anxiousness and irritability
- Dilated pupils
- Drastic weight loss
- Staying out late
Crack cocaine abuse can also lead to several detrimental health effects such as strokes, heart attacks, lung damage, extreme malnutrition, and drastic loss of weight. Many people who have long-term addiction to crack cocaine experience incidences of psychosis and paranoia.
Using crack cocaine in pregnancy is harmful to the well-being and health of the fetus. In some cases, crack can lead to stillbirths and miscarriages, or result in premature labor. If the child makes it, he may develop withdrawal symptoms, severe growth deformities, and developmental issues after birth.
Getting Treatment for Drug Addiction and Abuse
Crack addiction can only be overcome through professional medical care. A good rehab and treatment facility is going to provide comprehensive treatment to assist individuals beat their addiction.
If you or a loved one is struggling with crack cocaine addiction, call United Recovery Project on 954-249-5026 for help.
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