January 22, 2025

Signs of Cocaine Addiction and Treatment Options

Learn to recognize the signs of cocaine addiction. If you or someone around you is struggling with substance abuse, please reach out for help.

Frame 1077241737Medically Reviewed by Dr. Fayz Yar Khan, MD FACP

signs of cocaine addiction

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Last Update on January 23, 2025

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Cocaine is a big public health issue in the US, affecting people and families across the country.

In 2018, there were 14,666 cocaine-related overdose deaths, 4.5 per 100,000 people.1

Arizona has similar challenges, with 2,664 drug overdose deaths in 2022, 36 per 100,000 residents.2

Not all of those deaths are solely cocaine, but its presence in overdose cases is getting worse.

Knowing the signs of cocaine addiction is key to early intervention, which can make all the difference in recovery.

By knowing the signs of cocaine use, loved ones and those struggling can take proactive steps toward help before things get worse.

Understanding the signs also helps to reduce stigma and allows family and friends to be more supportive during recovery.

Understanding Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine’s addictive effects come from its impact on the brain’s reward system.

It floods the brain with dopamine—a pleasure chemical that gives you a high.

Those who are addicted use it again and again.

Over time, the brain gets less responsive, and even more cocaine is needed to get the same high; thus, the cycle of addiction occurs.

Cocaine addiction wrecks your mental and physical health and increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory and digestive issues.3

This cycle of addiction and health risks is why early intervention is key.

Warning Signs of Cocaine Use

Identifying cocaine addiction early can make a critical difference in your recovery.

Early intervention helps prevent addiction from worsening and allows timely support to reduce long-term health risks.

Recognizing signs can be challenging, as they can vary from person to person, but there are some common signs to look for.

Physical symptoms like rapid weight loss, dilated pupils, and a runny nose can signal cocaine use.

Emotional and behavioral changes, such as extreme mood swings, paranoia, or withdrawal from friends and family, are also common signs.

Identifying these symptoms, especially when they persist, can help loved ones offer support and encourage treatment.

Physical Signs

Since the substance is a stimulant, it speeds up the activity of the body, thus offering a temporary increase in energy levels.

In addition, this strains the heart, besides causing an increase in blood pressure.

Long-term use has permanent effects on respiration and the condition of respiratory organs.

Some physical signs that are commonly seen in the cases of cocaine addiction are:

  • Loss of weight within short periods
  • Enlarged pupils and sensitivity to light
  • Runny or bloody nose – if snorting, nosebleeds frequently
  • Tremors or muscle twitches
  • Periods of energized feelings followed by fatigue
  • Dental problems – such as teeth grinding or the acid in cocaine hurting teeth

 

These are symptoms that, combined, might indicate a chronic battle with cocaine addiction.

Behavioral Signs

Cocaine affects the brain and causes behavioral changes.

It gives you a rush of dopamine and makes you feel euphoric.

As the effects wear off, the dopamine drops, and you get mood swings and irritability.

Over time, this cycle can lead to compulsive behavior as you use more cocaine to maintain the high or avoid a crash.

Common behavioral signs of cocaine addiction are:

  • Mood swings from euphoria to anger or irritability
  • Paranoia or suspiciousness
  • Restlessness or hyperactivity
  • Withdrawal from family or friends
  • Risky or impulsive behavior
  • Not showing up to work, school or home

 

These behaviors get worse as addiction goes on and affect daily life and relationships.

Psychological Signs

Cocaine messes with the brain’s dopamine system that controls mood, motivation and reward.

Cocaine use gives a dopamine rush and intense pleasure, but over time, the brain becomes dependent on cocaine to release dopamine and loses its natural ability to feel joy or motivation without it.

This dependency can lead to mental health issues.

Here are some common psychological symptoms of coke addiction:

  • Cravings for cocaine
  • Anxiety or panic attacks
  • Memory issues
  • Paranoia or feeling like you’re being watched
  • Depression or no motivation when not using
  • Hallucinations – especially with prolonged use

 

These psychological effects often require professional support to address fully.

Quick Tip: Look for the Warning Signs!

If you or someone you know is using cocaine, get help. Whether through friends, family or professional resources, having a support system makes a big difference. You’re not alone in this.

Treatment Options for Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine addiction is hard to overcome, but recovery is very possible.

Early intervention is very important, and timely treatment can make a huge difference in your recovery.

Cornerstone Healing Center offers multiple individualized treatment options and support throughout your recovery:

  • Residential Rehab is a structured and supportive environment focused on intensive therapy and relapse prevention.
  • Outpatient Programs are a flexible option if you’re balancing treatment with other responsibilities.
  • Virtual IOP offers flexible online therapy and support, allowing you to receive care from home while managing your daily responsibilities.
  • Behavioral Therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can help you manage triggers and build coping skills.

With the right treatment and support, recovery from cocaine addiction is very achievable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I help someone addicted to Cocaine?

Support your loved one without judgment. Learn to recognize the signs of cocaine addiction, encourage them to join support groups or treatment programs and set boundaries to not enable their behavior. Remember, your loved one’s recovery is a long process, so be patient and involved, but not if it harms your health or safety.

Yes, you can experience withdrawal symptoms from cocaine, but they’re mostly psychological rather than physical. Symptoms include intense cravings, fatigue, depression, anxiety, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and sometimes vivid or unpleasant dreams. Very intense symptoms can make it hard for you to quit without professional help or support from addiction treatment programs.

The best treatment for cocaine addiction combines behavioral therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), support groups, and individualized care in inpatient, outpatient, or virtual IOP programs. A tailored approach addressing emotional, psychological, and lifestyle factors ensures a higher chance of long-term recovery and lasting change.

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Key Takeaways

Start Your Journey to Cocaine Recovery Today

Recognizing the signs of cocaine addiction early can make a big difference.

Overcoming addiction is challenging, but with the right support from family, friends, and professionals, recovery is possible.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with cocaine addiction, reach out to us today.

At Cornerstone Healing Center, we provide personalized treatment in a safe and supportive environment designed to help you heal and grow.

Our services include a specialized cocaine treatment program, along with behavioral therapy, to guide you toward lasting change.

Take the first step toward a healthier, happier future.

You don’t have to face this alone—help is here.

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Author & Reviewers

lionel estrada lisac clinical director
CLINICAL DIRECTOR & REVIEWER

Lionel is the Clinical Director of Cornerstone’s Scottsdale treatment facilities. He has had over 4 years at Cornerstone. He is personally in recovery and passionate about helping others overcome substance abuse and mental health challenges; he is trained as an EMDR, adopting a trauma-informed approach to treat the underlying issues.

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