At a Glance
Crack addiction is a substance use disorder that involves the use of crack cocaine.
Crack cocaine has serious health risks, which is why treatment is so important.
Detoxing the body of the substance and attending psychotherapy can help people with their long-term recovery from crack addiction.
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What Is Crack Cocaine?
Cocaineis a stimulant drug that is extracted from the leaves of the coca plant.
Cocaine is currently classified as a Schedule II drug.
Crack is a form of cocaine that people smoke.
The term crack refers to the crackling sound the crystal makes when it is being heated to smoke.
Research suggests that the progression from use to addiction is strongly influenced by genetics.
Cocaine and crack are powerfulstimulantsthat give users a euphoric feeling and increased energy, says Dr. Tetrault.
Smoking crack can cause the drug to reach the brain faster than snorting powdered cocaine.
The high is stronger but only lasts five to 10 minutes.
Crack is, therefore, associated with stronger cravings and a greater risk of addiction than inhaled cocaine.
This is known as developing a tolerance.
A person can overdose the first time they use crack cocaine, or any time thereafter.
Using crack cocaine can cause an overdose or other serious or life-threatening side effects.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
How Is Crack Addiction Diagnosed?
Crack addiction is diagnosed by clinicians, says Dr. Tetrault.
Treating a Crack Addiction
Treating a crack addiction may involve detoxification and therapy.
Treatment may occur in hospitals, in therapeutic communities, or in clinical configs.
Working through the emotional challenges that accompany addiction can take a lot longer.
Therapy
Several evidence-based counseling options have been shown to treat crack addictions, says Dr. Tetrault.
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