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Coke Jaw

Cocaine abuse is fairly easy to spot. Dilated pupils, excessive sweating, grumpiness, and unusual behavior are telltale signs that someone has been using.

Coke jaw is another dead giveaway. It is one of many consequences of cocaine use that impact the mouth, which is very noticeable.

coke jaw

Unfortunately, the way it looks is the least of your worries. If cocaine use is serious and prolonged, coke jaw can do serious damage inside your mouth. Educating yourself about coke jaw and other mouth conditions will improve your chances of beating this addiction for good.

(If you are worried about a friend or loved one, we’re glad you’re here. This is a great discussion to “listen in on.”)

What Is Coke Jaw?

A number of cocaine-related problems affect the mouth. Effects of cocaine use range from temporary dry mouth to chronic gum disease and eventual tooth loss. As a whole, oral problems are referred to as coke mouth. The severity of coke mouth usually depends on the severity of the addiction.

More specifically, coke jaw falls under the umbrella of temporomandibular disorders, or TMD. That is a fancy term for a wide range of jaw problems that cause jaw pain. Examples include difficulty opening and closing the mouth, jaw popping or clicking, and facial palpitations. People who don’t use cocaine can have one or more symptoms of TMD, but users have more instances of TMD and more pronounced symptoms.

Coke jaw is marked by the tightening of the jaw or by erratic, uncontrollable jaw movement, typically from side to side. People with coke jaw also clench and grind their teeth, often without being aware of it.

This is one of those unpleasant side effects that might have you asking yourself if cocaine is worth it.

For one thing, coke jaw is painful. The human jaw is not constructed to move from side to side. The unnatural movement can cause serious headaches and much worse.

sore jaw

What Causes It?

Stimulants like meth, ecstasy, and coke cause just about every process in the body to fast forward. The explosive burst of energy might feel like a good thing at first, but it is short-term and quickly starts to overwhelm. Cocaine is notorious for making people tense, anxious, grouchy and paranoid. People who are tense, anxious, grouchy and paranoid tend to clench their jaw and grind their teeth. You can sometimes even see their jaws working back and forth or their jawbones “knotting” under the skin.

Users who rub the drug directly into gum tissue are more likely to develop coke jaw.

What Other Problems Does It Lead To?

Most people are aware of the damage that coke can do in the brain, various body systems, and vital organs. The potential long-term damage of coke jaw and other mouth issues is not talked about as much. It should be.

Cocaine abuse creates a perfect storm for all sorts of oral problems, and one bad symptom or disorder usually triggers or exacerbates others. That is often the case with substance use disorder. For example, depression and anxiety usually go hand in hand with a drug habit. It is the same way with coke mouth — if you have one issue, like coke jaw, you typically have several.

Excessive teeth-grinding, a disorder known as bruxism, is a common complaint with coke jaw. It can lead to a world of hurt in both the dentist’s chair and your bank account. Grinding your teeth can result in worn-down tooth enamel, cavities, and brittle or broken teeth. Dental remedies are not cheap.

Cocaine users also have to watch out for dental erosion. Have you ever heard about the effects of lemon or other acidic foods on your teeth? Well, cocaine powder is like lemon juice on steroids. It almost immediately starts eating away at tooth enamel and mouth tissue, especially the tissue between teeth. Once that is gone, painful mouth sores, infections, and missing teeth could be in your future.

If the cocaine is cut with other substances, which it almost certainly is, the risk for exposure to acidic materials and bacteria is even greater.

Rubbing cocaine into your gums puts you at high risk for bone loss and chronic gum diseases like gingivitis. Smoking crack cocaine — or smoking anything — also does extensive damage. The bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place recede and wear away; having no anchor, teeth start drifting and eventually fall out.

jaw x-ray

As for dry mouth, not taking it seriously is a mistake. Dry mouth occurs when cocaine use disrupts the flow of saliva. Tooth decay, bleeding gums, and gum disease are likely without saliva.

Cocaine constricts blood vessels, which cuts off the oxygen supply to cells. As a result, when snorting coke becomes a habit, the cells in the nasal cavity start dying off. Since the nose and mouth are so closely connected, tissues in the soft and hard palates gradually deteriorate. The resulting perforations, or holes, make it hard to talk, swallow, and eat.

In addition to causing serious problems inside the mouth, coke jaw and other issues take a heavy toll on self-esteem. Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. The condition of your teeth and gums can make or break your mood, confidence, and motivation.

Some side effects, like a runny nose, nosebleeds, or dilated pupils, go away when cocaine is out of the system. However, in severe cases of addiction, coke-related dental issues could be around for a while.

How Is It Treated?

Coke jaw is not a dental problem. It’s a substance abuse problem.

Drug use is the greatest obstacle to good oral health. Aside from the direct damage cocaine can do, people who use it are less likely to eat well, stay hydrated, and practice good hygiene.

doctor

Fortunately, when a problem from cocaine side effects is caught and treated early on, the likelihood of long-term damage from coke mouth is small. When the drug is withdrawn and detox, many issues start to self-correct right away. Also, the best treatment programs incorporate nutritional advice and hygiene tips to restore a winning smile.

If more help is needed, dentists and periodontists have the advanced technology to practically work miracles these days. The number of options in restorative dentistry — like implants, dental bridges, and partial dentures — keeps growing all the time.

Again, though, when the effects of cocaine is the main problem, staying on top of dental issues and other health problems is all but impossible. When one complaint is temporarily resolved, another crops up in its place.

Treating symptoms, like coke jaw or any other from drug abuse, is never a long-term solution. We must get to the root of the problem and call it what it is: Addiction is a chronic disease just like diabetes or high blood pressure. There is no cure, but it can be managed. With the help of experienced professionals and proven treatment methods, people with substance use disorder live productive, rewarding lives.

Help for Addiction at ReCreate Life Counseling

If you are struggling to quit cocaine, we understand how you got here.

People start using coke for the intense euphoria it provides. Almost immediately, users feel happier, more energetic, and more confident. For those reasons, cocaine is one of the most dangerous drugs in the world. Every day, someone who intended to use it only occasionally or even just once becomes hooked. The allure is powerful, but we have powerful weapons.

Since no two drugs, no two people, and no two addictions are alike, we tailor our treatment plans to individual needs. Your highly personalized care might combine several of these proven methods:

Coke jaw is merely a symptom. ReCreate Life Counseling centers are safe places to work through underlying issues. Reach out now by phone or chat to speak with a caring, experienced counselor. We’re eager to set you or someone you love on the path to healing.

  • What is coke jaw?
  • How long after using cocaine is coke jaw visible?

Published on: 2022-08-30
Updated on: 2024-07-13

What Is the Most Expensive Drug in the World?

When people think of paying a lot for drugs, they typically pay large amounts for illegal substances like cocaine, which can be pretty pricey. However, the ten most expensive drugs in the United States are all prescription medications.  According to an article published by Becker’s Hospital Review, the most expensive drug in the United States is Zolgensma, a drug used to treat spinal muscular atrophy.

People who require this medication pay over $2 million a year out of pocket. After this medication, Zokinvy is the most expensive, costing those who need it over $1 million every year.  

Zolgensma As a The Most Expensive Legal Drug in The World

Unfortunately, major pharmaceutical companies monopolize on the needs of people with rare illnesses who require medication to survive. What makes these medications so expensive, and are there any alternatives that people in need can reach if they are in lower or middle-income brackets? Zolgensma does not currently have any alternatives.

It is used to treat a rare motor neuron disease that leaves children with a slim chance of survival if they don’t have access to the medication before they turn two years old. This drug is only available in the UK, and it is roughly 1.7 million pounds for a single dose. 

The Most Costly Illegal Drug on The Current Market

Of course, medications like this are an absolute necessity, and those who use them will never abuse them simply because they are so unobtainable and expensive. But which illegal drugs on the current market are the most costly, and which expensive drugs are abused the most frequently?

What Is the Most Expensive Drug in the World?

Drug Addiction Is a Very Expensive Habit 

Even people who use easily accessed drugs and relatively easy to afford, like methamphetamine and crack cocaine, often find themselves in a very bad financial place.  This is not only because the chemical substances themselves are expensive but also because people grappling with substance abuse disorders are rarely able to hold down a job and financially support themselves. As a result, they often resort to stealing money from relatives and friends, pawning valuables, and engaging in other illegal activities to support their habit. 

The Most Commonly Abused and The Most Expensive Drug in The United States Is…

 Interestingly enough, the most commonly abused and the most expensive drug in the United States (outside of the prescription medications we previously mentioned) is tobacco. The National Institute on Drug Abuse  Found that tobacco costs American citizens roughly $295 billion every year.  Outside of that, tobacco costs $130 billion alone in health care costs like cancer treatments and the treatment of emphysema and other smoke-related issues.

Alcohol As a Second The Most Expensive Drug in The Country

As one might imagine, the 2nd most expensive chemical substance throughout the country is alcohol, which costs Americans roughly $224 billion every year.  Think about it. If you go to the bar and purchase three alcoholic beverages, you probably spend around $30 every time.  

If you go to the bar 5 times a week, That’s roughly $150 that you would otherwise be saving.  Prescription painkillers like oxycodone and hydrocodone also cost Americans a significant amount of money, including cocaine, marijuana, and heroin.  If you have been struggling with a drug addiction of any type or severity and you take the time to do the math, you will be amazed at how much you spend on an annual basis.

Get Help For Drug Dependence at Recreate Life Counseling

At Recreate Life Counseling, we do more than provide our clients with a comprehensive addiction treatment program. We understand that active addiction strips people of their ability to control their finances adequately. We offer life skills training services that focus on budgeting and regaining financial independence.  We take the time to show each of our clients how much money they will save long-term should they maintain sobriety.

Contact us today to learn more about our drug addiction recovery program or get started with our simple admissions process. We look forward to speaking with you soon and helping you get started on a path that is undeniably much better than the path you are on now.

FAQ

  • How do drugs compare in cost compared to drug rehab and jail time?

Published on: 2021-08-13
Updated on: 2024-11-08

Does Ritalin Show as Amphetamines on Drug Tests?

Ritalin, the brand name for a commonly prescribed medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), has garnered attention regarding its potential impact on drug screens, particularly in relation to amphetamines. Methylphenidate, the active ingredient in Ritalin, operates as a central nervous system stimulant, enhancing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain to ameliorate attention deficits and hyperactivity.

When individuals undergo urine drug testing, concerns may arise regarding the potential for Ritalin to yield false-positive results for amphetamines. Understanding the pharmacokinetics and metabolites of methylphenidate is crucial in deciphering its implications on drug screens. While methylphenidate shares structural similarities with amphetamines, it typically does not cross-react with amphetamine assays commonly employed in drug screens. However, rare instances of cross-reactivity have been reported, necessitating a nuanced approach in the interpretation of test results.

Ritalin

Healthcare professionals often employ various methodologies in drug screening, including immunoassays and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), to accurately discern the presence of substances. Immunoassays, commonly utilized due to their rapidity and cost-effectiveness, may exhibit limitations in specificity, potentially leading to false-positive results. In contrast, LC-MS offers enhanced sensitivity and specificity, enabling precise identification and quantification of substances present in urine samples.

Clinicians must consider factors such as the patient’s medication regimen, dosage, and timing of administration when interpreting drug test results. Extended-release formulations of Ritalin may exhibit distinct pharmacokinetic profiles compared to immediate-release formulations, influencing the detection window and potential for cross-reactivity in drug screens.

Moreover, the presence of other substances, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or cannabinoids, in urine samples may further complicate the interpretation of test results. Clinicians must remain vigilant to the possibility of false-positive or false-negative findings, employing comprehensive clinical judgment in conjunction with laboratory data.

Research published on platforms like PubMed underscores the importance of continued investigation into the pharmacology and toxicology of methylphenidate, particularly its implications in urine drug screening. Additionally, advancements in toxicological methodologies and assay technologies contribute to refining the accuracy and reliability of drug screening procedures.

Remember, while methylphenidate, the active ingredient in Ritalin, may share structural similarities with amphetamines, it typically does not produce positive results in amphetamine screens. However, rare instances of cross-reactivity may occur, emphasizing the need for meticulous interpretation of test results by healthcare professionals. Continued research and advancements in toxicology are essential in elucidating the complexities surrounding drug screening in individuals prescribed medications like Ritalin.

How does Ritalin Affect Your Body?

Ritalin can produce a euphoric feeling and can make people who don’t have ADHD feel more productive when taking Ritalin and more capable of taking on day-to-day tasks. This can lead to psychological dependence in a short matter of days or weeks.

Many people consider this drug a “study drug”, along with other drugs that are used to treat ADHD, like Adderall or Concerta. This is because high school and college students tend to take these medications before big exams or while completing term papers. After all, they increase their alertness and make them more capable of working for long hours.If a person has been struggling with a substance abuse disorder and is diagnosed with an attention-related issue, he or she will generally not be prescribed a drug like Ritalin because of its high propensity for abuse. While this medication is significantly stronger than caffeine, it is not as strong as amphetamine – but this does not mean that it doesn’t show up on drug tests.

Drug Test

Does Ritalin Show Up On Amphetamine Drug Tests?

Depending on the type of drug test and what they’re looking for, methylphenidate may show up and cause a positive result for Amphetamine. For that reason, it may be necessary to inform testers that you’re taking a methylphenidate prescription. If you’re taking it illegally, you’ll need to stop before taking the test.

Ritalin is detectable on drug tests for a relatively short amount of time, but the actual length of time depends on the drug test that is being administered and the severity of the Ritalin abuse disorder.

Methylphenidate is a short-acting stimulant with a duration of action of 1 to 4 hours and a pharmacokinetic half-life of 2 to 3 hours. Maximum drug concentration after oral administration occurs at about 2 hours.

People who are consuming a higher dose of Ritalin daily would have the medication in their bloodstream for longer. Studies show that some people excrete up to 97 percent of the drug in between 24 and 48 hours, whereas other people only excrete 78 percent of the drug throughout the same two-day time period. Methylphenidate may be detectable in urine up to two days after use.

The severity of the substance abuse disorder is not the only contributing factor when it comes to how quickly the body processes Ritalin and other similar medications. A person’s body weight, metabolism, and age affect how quickly drugs are processed, as well as what state the kidneys are currently in (all drugs filter through the kidneys, which is why kidney disease is such a common side effect of substance abuse).

Test TypeDetection TimeNote
Urine Test1-3 daysRitalin can sometimes cause false-positive results for amphetamines due to its effects.

Recreate Life Counseling and Prescription Drug Addiction Recovery 

At Recreate Life Counseling, we offer comprehensive prescription drug addiction recovery services geared towards helping men and women who have been struggling with prescription drug addiction go on to lead the healthy and substance-free lives they deserve. We understand how difficult it can be to come to terms with prescription drug addiction because, in many instances, the person who ends up abusing the drug was originally prescribed the medication for a legitimate medical reason.

However, because so many people take Ritalin and other similar medications, it is also not uncommon for a person to find an unused or forgotten prescription in the medicine cabinet of a family member or close friend. Regardless of how you started down the path of substance abuse, we are available to help.

Our admissions process is simple and uncomplicated and is geared toward taking as much stress off of you and your loved ones as possible. Simply give us a call to get started or to learn more about our program of prescription drug addiction recovery.

FAQ

  • Is Ritalin habit forming?
  • Does Ritalin Show as Amphetamines on Drug Tests?

Published on: 2021-05-31
Updated on: 2024-07-08

Is Ritalin More Addictive Than Concerta?

Ritalin and Concerta are CNS stimulant medications that are used to treat ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Both of these medications contain the same active ingredient, methylphenidate. They work by increasing brain activity, specifically the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the central nervous system. Ritalin and Concerta produce unnaturally high levels of dopamine. Dopamine occurs naturally in the body; it is the body’s natural feel-good chemical that creates a rewarding effect.

Both Ritalin and Concerta increase energy, increase the user’s ability to stay focused, pay attention, and can help to control behavior problems. Ritalin and Concerta may also help reduce symptoms such as fidgeting, improve listening skills and help a person to organize their tasks. Both drugs are also sometimes used to help those with sleeping disorders to stay awake.

The Primary Care Companion to The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry says:

Many children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD can benefit from the therapeutic effects of methylphenidate with minimum side effects. The most common side effects are insomnia, stomachache, headache, and anorexia. When these side effects do occur in treatment, they usually can be managed effectively or diminish in severity with time to a tolerable level. This stimulant medication is generally safe when used as prescribed; it produces few serious adverse events when used orally in therapeutic doses. However, the entire therapeutic profile starts to change when it is abused. (NIH )

Ritalin and Concerta are listed as Schedule II Controlled Substances by the DEA. This means the drugs do have medicinal benefits, but both have a high potential for abuse, and a person can develop a physical dependence.

Is Ritalin More Addictive Than Concerta?

What Is the Difference Between Ritalin and Concerta?

Ritalin and Concerta contain the same active ingredients, both medications work in the body in the same fashion and produce the same results, but they do have their differences. Concerta is a long-acting drug. It causes a steady increase in dopamine, and it is taken once a day. Concerta last for between 10 to 12 hours.

Ritalin is a short-acting drug, which means it works quickly and increases dopamine and norepinephrine levels immediately. It is taken 2 to 3 times a day and is effective for people that need immediate relief. Ritalin does come in a long-acting form, but its effects only last about 8 hours.

Is Ritalin More Dangerous Than Concerta?

Both Ritalin and Concerta are very addictive prescription medications, but Ritalin has an instant release formulation that could be more dangerous. Ritalin could be more addictive due solely to the fact that its effects work immediately. Especially if the drug is crushed and snorted or used IV. However, any drug that is abused by being crushed and snorted or used through an IV will produce intense, immediate effects. When addicts are looking to get high, more often than not they are looking for immediate “relief”.

Treatment for Stimulant Abuse

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction, our addiction specialists are available around the clock to assist you. Recreate Life Counseling offers evidence-based addiction treatment. Our cutting edge addiction treatment will lead you on a road to long-lasting recovery. You don’t have to suffer any longer. Call us today for more information on our stimulant addiction treatment programs.


Published on: 2021-02-12
Updated on: 2024-11-08

Mixing Buprenorphine and Ultram

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist used to treat those with opioid use disorder or opioid dependency. It does provide mild pain relief and can cause a slight euphoria, but it also has a ceiling effect. Once you get to a certain dose, taking more of the drug will not increase the high you experience.

Ultram is a medication, similar to opioid analgesics, used to treat moderate to severe pain. It acts on the central nervous system to promote relaxation and feelings of well-being. It is a narcotic and is a Schedule IV controlled substance. This means it does have medicinal benefits, but it can also be addictive.

Mixing Buprenorphine and Ultram

Dangers of Mixing Buprenorphine and Ultram

It is dangerous to mix any drugs, period, and mixing buprenorphine and Ultram can have deadly effects. Taking two opioids at the same time can increase the risk of an overdose. Also, using buprenorphine together with Ultram can significantly increase the risk of seizure activity.

The American Journal on Addictions says:

Drug interactions are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Methadone and buprenorphine are frequently prescribed for the treatment of opioid addiction. Patients needing treatment with these medications often have co-occurring medical and mental illnesses that require medication treatment. The abuse of illicit substances is also common in opioid-addicted individuals. These clinical realities place patients being treated with methadone and buprenorphine at risk for potentially toxic drug interactions.

Furthermore, when mixing Ultram or any other opioid with buprenorphine, most likely you will not feel the effects. Buprenorphine has a higher binding rate than Ultram, and it occupies the opioid receptors in the brain.

Dangers of Mixing Suboxone and Ultram

Another thing to note here is that there is a huge difference if someone were to mix Ultram with Suboxone. Suboxone is a combination medication used to treat opioid use disorder or opioid dependency. Suboxone contains two ingredients, buprenorphine, and naloxone; the naloxone in Suboxone reverses the effects of opioids.

You can take Ultram after you have taken Suboxone, however, if you take Suboxone after taking Ultram or any other opioid, you will most likely experience precipitated withdrawal symptoms. The naloxone in Suboxone would reverse the effects of the Ultram, and the buprenorphine would dislodge the Ultram or opioid from the receptors and replace it. Precipitated withdrawal is a very awful experience.

One last thing that I think is important to note. Buprenorphine or Suboxone are both 50 times more potent than Morphine, so if you have been taking either medication for a length of time, your opioid tolerance is going to be high. If you are trying to achieve a high by mixing the two drugs, it would take very large doses of Ultram, and that high of a dose would likely be extremely dangerous.

Treatment for Addiction

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction, our addiction specialists are available around the clock to assist you. Recreate Life Counseling offers evidence-based addiction treatment. Our cutting edge addiction treatment will lead you on a road to long-lasting recovery. You don’t have to suffer any longer. Call us today.


Published on: 2021-01-05
Updated on: 2024-07-08

What Are the Street Names for Ecstasy?

Ecstasy is a synthetic drug chemically similar to hallucinogens and stimulants. It has a similar structure as methamphetamines and is a derivative of amphetamines. Ecstasy alters an individual’s mood and perception and also produces feelings of extreme pleasure, increased energy, distorted time and sensory perception, and emotional warmth.

Ecstasy used to be a legal medication. It was developed in 1912, by the Merck pharmaceutical company. The original form of the medication was called “MDMA”, and in 1953 it was used by the US Army in psychological warfare testing. In 1960, “MDMA” was used as a psychotherapy medication to lower inhibitions, and by the 1970’s it was being used as a party drug.

In the 1980s MDMA was the most popular drug for weekend parties. In 1984, it was sold under the brand name of “Ecstasy”, and in 1985 it was banned due to safety concerns.

According to the National Institutes of Health:

MDMA was initially popular in the nightclub scene and at all-night dance parties (“raves”), but the drug now affects a broader range of people who more commonly call the drug Ecstasy or Molly. People who use MDMA usually take it as a capsule or tablet, though some swallow it in liquid form or snort the powder. The popular nickname Molly (slang for “molecular”) often refers to the supposedly “pure” crystalline powder form of MDMA, usually sold in capsules. However, people who purchase powder or capsules sold as Molly often actually get other drugs such as synthetic cathinones (“bath salts”) instead. Some people take MDMA in combination with other drugs such as alcohol or marijuana.

Ecstasy usually comes in the form of a pill, but it can also be injected or taken as a liquid; the liquid form of the drug is called GHB. GHB is a central nervous system depressant, and it is a very dangerous form of the drug. There have been many instances where GHB has been unknowingly slipped into people’s drinks. They are then lured away from their original location and will wake up the next day without having any recollection of what happened to them.

What Are the Street Names for Ecstasy?

What Are the Street Names for Ecstasy?

Ecstasy has many different street names. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has many alternative ecstasy names listed in their database because drug dealers often change the street names to try and confuse law enforcement.

Known as a party drug, ecstasy comes in pill or powder form; the pill has a variety of logos and colors. The street names put together by the DEA include:

  • Adam
  • Beans
  • Biscuit
  • Clarity
  • Disco Biscuit
  • E
  • Eve
  • Hug Drug
  • Lover’s Speed
  • MDMA
  • Peace
  • STP
  • X
  • XTC
  • Molly

There are also some other street names of ecstasy: Cadillac, California Sunrise, Essence, Elephants, Love Drug, Love Pill, Molly, Roll, Scooby snacks, Snowball, and XE.

Side Effects of Ecstasy Use

Ecstasy affects three different chemicals in the brain, dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Its effects can give the individual a greater sense of well-being, emotional warmth, enhanced sensory perception, and increased empathy towards others. Some of the side effects of the drug can include:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Confusion
  • Attention problems
  • Decreased libido
  • Irritability
  • Insomnia
  • Reduced appetite
  • Memory problems
  • Impulsiveness

The onset of Ecstasy is about 45 minutes after a dose is taken, and the duration is usually between three to six hours.

Dangers of Ecstasy Abuse

Just like a lot of heroin, cocaine, and other substances in this country are being mixed with fentanyl, Ecstasy can also have a lot of additives. A person may purchase a pill that they believe to be pure Molly, but much of the time it is mixed with cocaine, methamphetamine, ketamine, bath salts, and/or over-the-counter cough medicine. You do not know what you are buying these days, and any of these substances can be extremely dangerous especially when mixed with MDMA.

Treatment for Ecstasy Addiction

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction, our addiction specialists are available around the clock to assist you. Recreate Life Counseling provides cutting edge addiction treatment. We tailor our programs to meet the individual needs of each person suffering from addiction. We offer a variety of different treatment programs to help recreate your life and get you on the road to a lasting recovery.

FAQ

  • How long does Ecstasy stay in your system?

Published on: 2020-10-14
Updated on: 2024-10-11

How Long Does a Crack Cocaine High Last?

Cocaine is an illicit substance that is a central nervous system stimulant. “Coke” can either be snorted, dissolved, and injected intravenously or smoked. The smokable form of cocaine is called crack cocaine.

Crack cocaine is cocaine that has had baking soda added to it and has been cooked down to form little rocks that can then be smoked. It is a freebase form of cocaine that produces a very short, intense euphoria to those that smoke it.

The Nation Institutes of Health states that:

Cocaine is one of the most prevalent and potentially dangerous illicit drugs. In 2012, almost 4.7 million individuals (aged 12 and older) in the US reported past-year use. There are notable racial and ethnic disparities in cocaine use with Whites more likely to report lifetime cocaine use (i.e., powder and/or crack cocaine) as compared to Blacks and Hispanics, but smaller differences for past-year use. For crack use specifically, Blacks were more likely to report lifetime use as compared to Whites and Hispanics, as well as past-year use. Possessing cocaine places an individual at risk for arrest and incarceration, which can lead to health consequences and loss of federal rights and benefits. (NIH)

Even though statistics do show that crack cocaine is more prevalent in blacks, this drug no matter what form it’s in, just like any other drug, does not discriminate. Addiction does not discriminate. Many people come from a variety of ethnicities and socioeconomic statuses that have issues with a crack cocaine addiction.

Crack Cocaine

How Long Do the Effects of Crack Cocaine Last?

The onset and duration of cocaine vary and depend solely on how the drug is ingested.  Let’s take a look at the different ways it’s ingested and how long the high lasts.

  • Injecting Cocaine – the onset of injecting cocaine is 10 to 15 seconds and the high lasts from 5 to 15 minutes.
  • Snorting Cocaine – the onset of snorting cocaine is 1 to 3 minutes and the high lasts from 15 to 30 minutes.
  • Gumming Cocaine – gumming cocaine is eating it or rubbing it on your gums. The onset of gumming cocaine is 1 to 3 minutes and the high lasts for 15 to 30 minutes.
  • Smoking Crack Cocaine – the onset of smoking crack cocaine is 10 to 15 seconds and the high lasts for 5 to 15 minutes.

The methods that get cocaine into your system or bloodstream faster allow the drug to wear off faster. The high euphoria that one gets from smoking crack cocaine comes on very hard and very fast making it one of the most, psychologically addicting drugs. Once the high wears off, the drug leaves you craving more and more of it. A lot of times you will hear people say that they continue to smoke crack cocaine, trying to achieve that initial high and euphoria that they got when they took that first hit, and they are never able to obtain it.

Is Crack Cocaine Withdrawal Real?

The crash you get when the cocaine wears completely off is often as intense as the high, just in the opposite direction. The major depression that one gets from cocaine withdrawal is at times unbearable. Other side effects of coming down from cocaine can include restlessness, irritability, trouble sleeping despite being tired, and anxiety.

Getting Treatment for Crack Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine and crack cocaine highs are intense, but also short-lived. This illicit stimulant is highly addictive and also very hard to recover from. Although recovery from a crack cocaine addiction is very hard, it is also possible.

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction, our addiction specialists are available around the clock to assist you. Recreate Life Counseling offers evidence-based treatment to get you on the road to recovery. Call us today to get started on a lasting recovery!

FAQ

  • How Long Does a Crack Cocaine High Last?

Published on: 2020-09-24
Updated on: 2024-04-18

What is the “13th Step” in Recovery

The programs of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are 12 Step programs. Twelve-step programs are organizations that were created for recovery from substance abuse. The first twelve-step program that was created is Alcoholics Anonymous; it was created in the 1930s.

The 12 Steps were created to establish guidelines to help those that were struggling with alcoholism overcome their addiction to alcohol. Because the 12-steps and program helped so many people in its early years, today there are a lot of 12-step programs available for several different addictions and compulsive behaviors.

What is the "13th Step" in Recovery?

Is There a 13th Step in Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous?

The “13th Step” is not officially part of any 12-step program. The definition of “13th stepping” is when an individual who has over a year of sobriety attempts to develop a sexual relationship with someone who is brand new in recovery, or who has less than a year of sobriety. When you join a 12-step program, you are strongly advised against starting a relationship of any kind for at least the first year of your recovery.

The Dangers of 13th Stepping

Starting a relationship of any kind, especially a sexual relationship, when you are new in recovery can be dangerous for several reasons. Here is a list of some of those reasons.

  • When you are new in recovery, you are very vulnerable. For someone, that has been in recovery, to take advantage of a newcomer is exploitative.
  • Starting a new relationship, especially a sexual relationship, can distract you from sustaining recovery.
  • If the relationship doesn’t work out, the potential for relapse is there, and this gives the newcomer justification to relapse.
  • It can drive new members away. This is a betrayal of trust.
  • 13th-stepping can damage the reputation of the program and individual meeting groups.
  • It can make a newcomer feel very unsafe and like they can’t trust the program or anyone in it.

The act of 13th Stepping is detrimental to anyone that is involved. It is detrimental to the program and specific meeting groups.

How Do You Protect Yourself from 13th Stepping?

There are several ways to protect yourself from 13th Stepping. Here are some things you can do:

  • It is best to stick with a sponsor of the same sex if you are heterosexual and of the opposite sex if you are homosexual.
  • If any sponsor in the program makes sexual advances towards you, it is very important to end the relationship immediately. Sponsors are there to help support you and give you advice only. Any other behavior can be damaging to the newcomer.
  • Newcomers’ priority should be their sobriety, so any sexual relationships should be avoided in the first year of recovery. Sexual relationships put the newcomer at too much risk.
  • Flirting is normal to an extent, but if the flirtatious behavior is making the newcomer feel uncomfortable, they should immediately talk with their sponsor about it. Their sponsor will be able to give them advice on how to deal with the behavior.
  • The only time it is acceptable to have a sexual relationship with another member of the program is when both parties are secure in their recovery and both have at least a year of sobriety under their belts. Sometimes even a year of sobriety isn’t enough depending on where each party is in their recovery.

AA meetings and groups, on the whole, are safe, but if you attend a meeting and notice any unethical behavior, it would be best to find a new meeting to attend. People in recovery are far from perfect; no one is perfect, but if you witness this type of behavior, especially right off the bat, it would be in your best interest to get away from it immediately.

Effective Treatment for Substance Use Disorders

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, our addiction specialists are available around the clock to assist you. Recreate Life Counseling offers evidence-based addiction treatment to get you to a lasting recovery. What are you waiting for? Call us today!


Published on: 2020-09-18
Updated on: 2024-11-08

Choosing a Power Greater Than Yourself

One of the main components of every 12-step method of addiction recovery is “coming to believe in a power greater than yourself.” Unfortunately, many men and women who could greatly benefit from a 12-step program allow this component to deter them entirely, generally because they believe this entails becoming religious or coming to believe in and put faith in a God. On the contrary, the phrase “higher power” encourages spirituality and the fostering of a spiritual connection – there is nothing religious about it. The step itself reads, “Came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” This is the 2nd step of Alcoholics Anonymous, and it explores spirituality as well as the definition of insanity.

When you enter addiction recovery, you will begin to further understand the meaning of insanity, which is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. What better describes active addiction than this definition of insanity? Those who are inactive addiction will use their drug of choice over and over again despite negative consequences, repeatedly telling themselves, “This time will be different,” or, “I’ll be able to control my intake this time around, I just know it.” Of course, this is never the case.

Time and time again those who are struggling with active addiction will make the same mistake. How do they pull themselves out of that trite old rut and overcome addiction? Well, they certainly cannot do it without help – and this is what “higher power” means. It means understanding that left to your own devices you will not be able to overcome addiction; that you will require some outside help, whatever that may look like to your specific case.

Choosing a Power Greater Than Yourself

How to Choose a Power Greater Than Yourself 

How do you go about choosing a power greater than yourself? We have outlined several simple steps – take a look.

  • First, do not put too much pressure on yourself. There is no “right way” to go about this. Over time you will begin to develop a clearer picture of what the phrase “higher power” means to you. In the meantime, choose something that you do not understand, like the ocean, or something that you know has helped you, like the program of Alcoholics Anonymous.
  • Practice prayer and meditation daily. This will further help you bolster your spiritual connection and will help you discover who or what your higher power is over time.
  • Ask around. Ask other men and women who have years of sobriety under their belts who or what they look to when they think of a power greater than themselves. There is no shame in asking for advice or guidance.
  • Choose something to work with initially, even if it seems silly to you. Many people will choose a doorknob as their higher power as a sort of placeholder until they can further explore their spirituality. The most important thing is that you recognize that addiction is out of your control and that your life has become unmanageable.

Recreate Life Counseling and the Twelve Steps

At Recreate Life Counseling, we passionately believe that spirituality is a fundamental component of every successful long-term recovery program. We also believe that working through the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous is an important part of every aftercare program; those who work through the 12 steps are far more likely to maintain long-term sobriety after treatment. Recreate Life Counseling offers an individualized and comprehensive treatment program for individuals who are suffering at the hands of substance abuse disorders of all types and severities. To learn more about our program of recovery, give us a call today. We look forward to speaking with you soon.


Published on: 2020-09-09
Updated on: 2024-04-18