Addiction Info - Crack
Crack cocaine is a potent type of powdered cocaine which is cooked into a more concentrated form. Crack cocaine is smoked – most often through a glass pipe or sometimes an aluminum can.Crack is known as one of the most addictive street drugs available (along with crystal meth) and those who use it are often unable to break the cycle of addiction. Crack produces a short-lasting, though powerful high.
Crack’s high is often replaced by serious side-effects including terrible mood-swings, violence, anxiety and other “out-of-character” behavior. Crack addiction is coupled with incredibly strong cravings. The self will which is mustered to declare “I WON’T DO THIS AGAIN!” disappears once the incredible physical and psychological cravings begin. Crack addicts develop a strong mental and physical dependency on the drug and feel they are not ‘normal’ without it.
Long-term effects of cocaine use include depression, heart and respiratory problems (crack cough), delirium, ongoing restlessness, and dental problems. Over time crack cocaine can result in heart and respiratory problems, heart attacks, and ultimately, death.
Addicts develop a physical and psychological dependence upon the drug and feel that they are unable to function normally without it.
When cocaine and alcohol are used together – a third and complex chemical compound is produced in the body: cocaethylene. Researchers have found that the human liver combines coke & alcohol and manufactures cocaethylene that intensifies cocaine's euphoric effects, while potentially increasing the risk of sudden death.
The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.
