Is Cocaine or Crack More Dangerous?
Have you been dabbling with cocaine and gotten in over your head? We at Oasis Recovery know how easily a cocaine addiction can sneak up on you. In fact, it is absolutely possible to use cocaine or crack only one time and become addicted.
Some people who are addicted to cocaine may think it is not quite as bad as being addicted to crack. This may be because it is a commonly held belief that crack is far more dangerous than cocaine is. However, experts advise that this is untrue. Let’s explore the facts.
What Is the Difference Between Cocaine and Crack?
You may be surprised to find out that the only difference between cocaine and crack is the manner in which the drug is taken. Chemically speaking, they are the exact same drug, according to the Drug Policy Alliance.
Cocaine exists in the form of a powder, which may be snorted, swallowed, or injected. Crack cocaine is formed into a hardened, rock-like substance, which is then smoked, usually in a pipe.
The Dangers of Cocaine Substance Abuse
Whether we are talking about cocaine or crack substance abuse addiction, since they are the same drug, they both come with dangerous risks and undesirable side effects.
When you become addicted to cocaine, you essentially lose control over your life and will do just about anything to fulfill your craving for more. Some find that they will likely spend all of the money they have on their addiction, rather than paying their bills or the rent. It is common to lose interest in friendships, family, or activities you used to enjoy.
When it comes to side effects to your body, there are many red flags to look out for. Life-threatening situations that may arise include sudden cardiac death, heart attack, and brain seizures. Here are other symptoms to know about:
- Elevated blood pressure
- Elevated or irregular heart rate
- Stroke
- Violent Behavior
- Inability to Perform Sexually
- Depression
- Instant Addiction
Is Cocaine or Crack More Addictive?
According to Duke University researchers, there is a reason why crack is notoriously known for being more addictive than snorted cocaine. When crack is smoked, it produces instant gratification, as opposed to cocaine that needs time to reach the brain through the circulatory system first.
The high from crack leaves the brain quickly, so the user is always left wanting more. In turn, they always want to repeat the process, as soon as possible. On the other hand, the person that snorts cocaine has a longer high, so the potential for addiction is not as strong.
As mentioned earlier, cocaine and crack are equally dangerous to your body when used. However, one must take into consideration that a drug like crack that is considered to be more addictive than snorting cocaine may have risk factors that do slightly outweigh the other.
Treatment for Substance Abuse at Oasis Recovery
Whether you are using cocaine or smoking crack, you are playing with fire. The short and long-term side effects of cocaine addiction are unhealthy at best and fatal at worst.
We at Oasis Recovery understand how intimidated you might feel at the thought of giving up something that you currently feel such a strong need to hold onto. That is why we vow to stand by your side and lend you strength when you need it the most.
Waiting until tomorrow, or next week to get clean is not going to make things any easier for you. During your treatment, we know just what to do to make you as comfortable as possible. Call us today and put your trust in our team of professionals who truly care.
