If you want to end a cocaine addiction, a detox program is a good starting point. As you begin your detox, you’ll likely begin an uncomfortable withdrawal process. While the idea of a cocaine withdrawal can be overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. Learn what to expect during withdrawal and prepare for what comes next.
Physical Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms
During a cocaine detox, many of the withdrawal symptoms are psychological rather than physical. However, you should still expect that some physical withdrawal symptoms.
Many people report that they have trouble regulating their body temperature during withdrawal. You might experience unexplained chills, or you might feel very hot all of a sudden. Dehydration is also possible, which can be tied to these extreme temperature fluctuations.
Those seeking recovery also widely report muscle aches during detox. Tremors and nerve pain are possible. Most people feel very lethargic. It might be hard to summon up the energy to do anything, but it can be equally hard to fall and stay asleep at night.
Psychological and Emotional Withdrawal Symptoms
Psychological symptoms can actually be more noticeable and frustrating than the relatively mild physical symptoms. Fortunately, these symptoms won’t last forever. Plus, medical professionals can carefully monitor and manage your discomfort during a drug detox program.
Mental fatigue is very common, and most patients have a hard time concentrating. It’s also possible to experience vivid dreams. Some people feel depressed, anxious, or paranoid. In rare cases, suicidal thoughts are possible.
During withdrawal from cocaine, the brain sees a drastic dip in dopamine and other feel-good chemicals. As a result, it can feel like pleasure and joy are sucked out of life. This can be incredibly challenging, but it won’t last. After detox ends, you’ll start to return to a more stable frame of mind and a more positive outlook.
Typical Cocaine Detox Timeline
Since cocaine has a short half-life, withdrawal symptoms can appear just two hours into detox. Initial symptoms will be mild, but they can become serious quickly.
Most patients start to need support for symptoms about 24 hours into the detox. Symptoms tend to peak at 48–72 hours into the detox. Expect withdrawal to last a few more days after the peak ends.
After Cocaine Withdrawal: What Comes Next?
The best addiction treatment facilities will make detox part of a comprehensive continuum of care. For most patients, there’s still more work to be done. Further residential treatment or outpatient substance abuse programs can help you find and maintain lifelong sobriety. At Ashley Addiction Treatment, you can expect all of the following treatment methods and therapies to be available for your recovery:
- Pharmacological care and medical support
- Dual diagnosis support
- Comprehensive assessments and individualized treatment plans
- Holistic approaches to recovery
- Group and individual therapy
Cocaine withdrawal is tough, but it can be the first step to your lifelong recovery. At Ashley Addiction Treatment in Havre de Grace, Maryland, you find the right program to end your addiction for life. Call 866-313-6307 and make the move toward better health and a fulfilling life.