Cocaine addiction treatment

Cocaine floods the brain with dopamine, then leaves it running on empty. Over time the highs get shorter, the crashes get harder and the cravings take over. Treatment helps the brain and the rest of your life recover.

Signs of cocaine addiction

• Using more often, in bigger amounts or in binges that last all night
• Strong cravings, especially around certain people, places or drinking
• Money disappearing, borrowing or selling things
• Nosebleeds, weight loss, poor sleep, irritability or paranoia
• The crash: exhaustion, low mood and anxiety after using
• Using despite problems at work, at home or with the law

The crash and early recovery

1. Hours–3 daysThe crash

   Exhaustion, long sleep, hunger, low mood, anxiety and irritability.

2. 1–10 weeksWithdrawal

   Cravings, poor concentration, flat mood and little pleasure in things.

3. MonthsExtinction

   Cravings fade but can be triggered by cues. This is where therapy pays off.

Treatment that works for cocaine

Because there’s no withdrawal medication, cocaine treatment is built on therapy and structure:

• Contingency management gives small, real rewards for drug-free tests. It sounds simple, and it’s one of the most effective treatments for stimulants.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) teaches you to spot triggers, ride out cravings and plan for high-risk moments.
• The Matrix Model is a structured outpatient approach that combines therapy, family education and support groups.
• Treatment for alcohol use, which often goes hand in hand with cocaine and makes relapse more likely.
• Mental health care for depression, anxiety, ADHD or trauma underneath the use.

If someone you love uses cocaine

Cocaine use often hides behind a busy, successful life, so families tend to notice money and mood first. Talk when they’re sober and rested, name specific things you’ve seen, and have a program in mind before you start. Our family guide can help.