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Information on Cocaine Detox & Treatment

Cocaine is a class of drugs know as a stimulant (similar to amphetamine).

WHat happens when you stop taking cocaine?

Abrupt cessation of cocaine use is associated with depression, anergia, anhedonia, increased drug craving, increased appetite, hypersomnolence and increased REM sleep. This initial period of intense symptoms is commonly termed the 'crash', which is usually selflimiting to a period of days.

Treating Cocaine withdrawal syptoms

Cocaine withdrawal syndrome are best treated supportively and symptomatically by allowing the patient to sleep and eat as much as necessary. A benzodiazepine such as chlordiazepoxide may be helpful in selected patients who develop agitation or sleep disturbance but these should not be continued any longer than two weeks. Neuroleptics should be avoided because of their potential to induce dysphoric side-effects.

The cocaine misuser is likely to experience a protracted withdrawal syndrome for months or even years which is characterised by depressed mood, lethargy and anhedonia together with intense craving. There is no specific pharmacological antidote for this syndrome or to limit the likelihood of relapse, although concurrent depressive disorder may respond to antidepressants.

In conclusion, the management of stimulant drug misuse is largely psycho-social at all stages.

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