Drugs can often be classified into two major categories–stimulants and depressants. Is cocaine a stimulant or depressant? In short, cocaine is a stimulant drug. Take a look at the dangers of cocaine, the risk of addiction, and how to overcome a cocaine addiction with detox.
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we provide cocaine detox services to those who are struggling with addiction to this powerful stimulant. At our cocaine detox center, we provide a safe and supportive environment for those who are ready to overcome their addiction. To learn more about our cocaine detox center in Texas, please contact Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston today at 866.516.8356.
Is Cocaine a Stimulant or Depressant?
If you find out that someone you love is abusing cocaine, it is normal to ask the question, is cocaine a stimulant or depressant? The basic answer is that cocaine is a stimulant. This means that using cocaine speeds up or stimulates the systems and functions of the body. This very powerful stimulant is derived from the coca plant. When it is used, it speeds up the central nervous system. This is why cocaine is often called a party drug. It makes people feel energetic and euphoric. Cocaine is a Schedule II drug, which means that it has a high potential for abuse.
Stimulant drugs can increase alertness or concentration in the short term. They can also inhibit tiredness, which means that it is challenging to rest or sleep while under the influence of cocaine. Stimulants can speed up heart rate and increase blood pressure. This can cause a lot of problems, particularly for anyone with cardiac issues to begin with.
Cocaine Effects on the Brain
Cocaine affects the brain by interfering with the way that nerve cells communicate. This substance is a very strong stimulant, and it binds to dopamine transporters. This prevents dopamine from being recycled, which results in an increased level of dopamine in the synapse. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is associated with feelings of pleasure. Cocaine works by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain. Almost immediately after using cocaine, users will feel this increase, and it can result in pleasure or the so-called high. This is why cocaine use can result in a feeling of euphoria.
Long-term effects of cocaine use can include changes in the brain’s dopamine system, which can lead to tolerance. Tolerance occurs when someone needs more of a drug to feel the same effects that they felt when they first started using. This can lead to addiction as people try to chase that initial high.
Side Effects of Cocaine Abuse
In the very short term, side effects of cocaine use can include:
- Hypersensitivity
- Irritability
- Paranoia
- Extreme levels of energy
- Anxiety
- Erratic or violent behavior
- Hallucinations
With the increase in energy comes the corresponding crash, which might come just minutes or sometimes hours after consuming cocaine. Users might feel depressed, and they may experience a craving for another dose of cocaine.
Cocaine use can also lead to changes in the brain’s structure and function. These changes can be long-lasting and can result in problems with memory, attention, and decision-making. Using and abusing cocaine can also lead to some health-related side effects. They can include nausea, restlessness, muscle twitches, and an irregular heartbeat.
Recognizing a Cocaine Addiction
Is cocaine a stimulant or depressant? This is as important a question as can you recognize cocaine addiction. It isn’t always easy to identify a cocaine addiction. One of the most obvious ways is to look for cocaine paraphernalia. Cocaine can be smoked, snorted, or even injected. White powder and clear plastic baggies can be visible signs of cocaine use.
Someone with a cocaine addiction will also likely experience drastic mood swings. They might arrive at a party looking tired and bored. After using cocaine, they could appear cheerful, loud, and like the life of the party. Cycling through extreme moods is common among those abusing cocaine.
Since cocaine is a stimulant, it can also impact a person’s sleep patterns. You might notice that a loved one is awake all night long or has irregular bedtime habits. Other symptoms of cocaine addiction include:
- Financial instability
- Relationship problems
- Changes in eating habits
- Secretive behavior
- Troubles with the law
If you are worried about a loved one who is abusing cocaine, it is important to get professional help.
Seek Treatment at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston
A cocaine detox program is the best way to fight back against cocaine addiction. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, detox programs prepare you for a lifetime of sobriety and freedom from addiction. Clients can look forward to all of the following during detox:
- 24/7 medical supervision
- Treatment for withdrawal symptoms
- Comfortable accommodation
- Meditation therapy
- Individual therapy
Is cocaine a stimulant or depressant? As a stimulant, cocaine causes all kinds of problems in your life. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, you can start to overcome drug addiction once and for all. Take control over your future by calling 866.516.8356 today.
