Cocaine vs. Crack: How Do They Differ?
Cocaine and crack are basically the same, but they do have a few differences. The important thing to know is they are both addictive stimulants with a range of short-term and long-term side effects. Here are some things you need to know about using cocaine or crack and the risks involved.
Cocaine is a popular drug for individuals who want to experience immediate euphoric effects. It is an addictive stimulant made from the leaves of the coca plant (Erythroxylon coca). People use cocaine powder to feel mentally alert, energetic, talkative, and euphoric.
When cocaine is extracted from the coca plant, it is a salt (hydrochloride) that is made into a paste, and then processed into a white powder. The powder is commonly used by snorting, but may also be smoked or mixed with a liquid and injected.
The duration of the effects of cocaine depends on the route of ingestion. For instance, snorting cocaine produces a slow onset of effects that last about 15 to 30 minutes. Whereas, smoking the drug produces immediate results but they last only about 5 to 10 minutes.
Cocaine is a Schedule II controlled substance and is still used medically for some procedures.
Crack is a solid form of cocaine that occurs when the hydrochloride is removed. The result is a substance that is more suited to smoking. Hydrochloride produces no psychoactive side effects therefore, crack is more concentrated than cocaine powder.
The street name “crack” comes from the crackling sound the substance makes when heated. Inhaling the vapors is referred to as free-basing. Smoking crack produces fast-acting euphoric effects. Approximately one million people used crack in the past year.
The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) imposes harsher minimum sentences for offenses involving crack cocaine.
Prolonged abuse of cocaine and crack results in a range of short-term side effects such as:
Long-term cocaine and crack use can lead to damage to the kidneys, liver, and cardiovascular system. Repeated use can result in increased tolerance and addiction.
Some signs of cocaine and crack abuse may include:
Cocaine and crack withdrawal may include vivid dreams, depression, increased appetite, paranoia, fatigue, and slowed responses.
Many people are confused about the differences between cocaine and crack which can put them at risk of harm if using the substances. Here are a few myths you may have heard compared to the facts:
Myth: Crack cocaine is more dangerous than regular cocaine.
Fact: The substances are chemically identical. The main difference is how the drug is ingested.
Myth: Crack leads to aggression and violence more than powder forms of cocaine.
Fact: No evidence supports this myth. Violence and aggression are often the result of other variables.
Myth: “Crack babies” are worse off than babies born to mothers who use other drugs.
Fact: This myth is partially true because taking any drugs while pregnant can harm the fetus. However, no evidence supports the theory that “crack babies” are different from those born to mothers who abuse alcohol, heroin, or powder cocaine.
Myth: Cocaine is not addictive or dangerous.
Fact: Cocaine is a highly addictive substance that can lead to major health problems, overdose, or death.
Myth: Cocaine helps you perform better at school or work and relieves social anxiety.
Fact: The more a person uses cocaine, they become more sensitive to stress and experience mood swings. Over time, they need more of the drug to get the desired effects which can result in panic attacks, paranoia, hallucinations, restlessness, and psychosis. Relying on cocaine and crack to make you less nervous or inhibited can lead to unsafe sex, cross-addiction, and poor decision-making.
If you or someone you know is struggling with cocaine or crack abuse, we can help. Design for Change Recovery offers a comprehensive program that treats both the physical and mental aspects of addiction. With this approach to treatment, clients enjoy long-term recovery.
Cocaine and crack are dangerous substances that cause serious health consequences. You can avoid those problems with professional treatment at Design for Changes. Our program is JCAHO-accredited and client-oriented to ensure the personalized, compassionate care you deserve.
The different levels of care available at Design for Change include:
Depending on your situation, your treatment plan may be short-term or long-term, and we will work with you to create the best recovery path for your needs.
Contact our Lancaster, CA facility by phone, email, or online to learn more about our programs. Our treatment advisors will be available to assist you in any way. Let today be the day you take the first step toward a substance-free future.
Sources:
nida.nih.gov.- Cocaine
justice.gov – Crack Cocaine Fast Facts