Cocaine Treatment: Getting Cocaine Addiction Treatment

The critical part of getting cocaine addiction treatment is the desire to get and stay off cocaine. Cocaine treatment can only work when the person truly wants cocaine help. Cocaine addicts cannot stop using cocaine on their own and need professional treatment for cocaine addiction. Cocaine addiction treatment can be very difficult, as relapse rates are thought to be between 94% - 99%.

When getting cocaine addiction treatment, remember the following:

• Be completely honest about all drug use - understating cocaine or other drug use can prevent successful treatment for cocaine.
• Tell the doctor about all medications, supplements, vitamins, etc. - any medication, even over-the-counter, can influence cocaine treatment.
• Take a support person with you - whether in a cocaine treatment center or cocaine treatment support group, another person's perspective can be helpful.
• Ask the doctor questions - ask any cocaine treatment professional any questions you have. You may want to write these questions down ahead of time.

Cocaine Addiction Treatment: Therapies Used in Cocaine Treatment

Behavioral therapies are the most effective approach to cocaine treatment. Drug-dependence programs (including cocaine addiction treatment) are available through cocaine rehab centers, hospitals, therapy or support and community groups. Cocaine addiction treatment is primarily done outpatient but some cocaine addiction treatment is available inpatient, in a full-time drug rehab center. A common support group used in cocaine treatment is Narcotics Anonymous, a 12-step group.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common choice in cocaine addiction treatment. CBT aims to change thinking and behavior around cocaine and other drugs. CBT is also known to decrease cravings during cocaine withdrawal. Motivational therapy (MT) is also used during cocaine treatment. MT aims to create a negative view of cocaine addiction and encourages changes in behavior.¹

Cocaine Addiction Treatment: Medications Used in Cocaine Treatment

There are no FDA approved medications for cocaine treatment. However, some drugs are being investigated for use in treatment for cocaine addiction. Medications being investigating for cocaine treatment include:²

• Alcohol antagonist drugs like disulfiram
• Anti-seizure medications like tiagabine
• Muscle relaxants like baclofen
• Wakefulness-promoting agents like modafinil
• Antipsychotics like quetiapine

Cocaine Addiction Treatment: Complications During Cocaine Treatment

While cocaine addiction treatment likely won't require medication or hospitalization, doctors are essential in cocaine treatment as they can screen for any additional physical or psychological issues. The number one goal of cocaine treatment is to prevent a cocaine-use relapse; any additional untreated physical or psychological issues can decrease the chances of cocaine treatment success. Common physical problems seen during cocaine withdrawal include lung and heart diseases.

Half of cocaine addicts have another mental illness. Any mental illness must be found and treated during cocaine treatment in order for cocaine treatment to be a success. Common mental health issues found during cocaine treatment include:³

• Depression, possibly suicidal
• Anxiety disorders
• Antisocial personality disorder
• Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Other addictions

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