Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms & How to Treat Them

Key Takeaways

• When people stop taking cocaine regularly, it can trigger a variety of unpleasant physical and psychological effects, collectively known as cocaine withdrawal. 
• Most cocaine withdrawal symptoms are psychological in nature, and include things like depression, fatigue, increased appetite, and cravings.
• However, cocaine withdrawal symptoms can also manifest physically, and they may include fatigue, agitation, tremors, and sleep disturbances.
• The withdrawal process can be broken down into three basic stages, with the “crash” phase occurring hours after the last dose and acute withdrawal lasting up to 10 days.
• Several factors can influence the severity and duration of the symptoms, including things like the individual’s health, as well as the duration and frequency of use. 
• Effective management of withdrawal symptoms involves medical detox, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and coping strategies.
• Professional treatment is crucial for managing withdrawal symptoms safely and reducing the risk of relapse.

When a person stops using cocaine after a period of heavy or prolonged use, their body and brain need time to adjust to the absence of the drug. This adjustment period – often referred to as cocaine withdrawal – causes a variety of symptoms that are often quite challenging for people to endure alone. 

We’ll explain everything you need to know about cocaine withdrawal symptoms, some factors that influence their severity, and outline some of the treatment strategies and approaches that help many people manage this often-difficult period. 

Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms can vary in intensity and duration depending on factors like the frequency and amount of cocaine use, the individual’s overall health, and whether other substances are also being used. 

The symptoms are generally divided into three phases:

Phase 1: The “Crash” Phase  

This phase typically occurs during the first three days after an individual stops using cocaine. The symptoms it triggers include:

• Intense Cravings: A strong desire to use cocaine again to relieve withdrawal discomfort.
• Exhaustion and Fatigue: Profound tiredness and lack of energy due to the body’s adjustment to functioning without the drug’s stimulant effects.
• Increased Appetite: Sudden increase in hunger as the drug’s appetite-suppressant effect wears off.
• Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of pleasure in life.
• Anxiety and Irritability: Feelings of restlessness, nervousness, and irritation.
• Agitation: Increased irritability and mood swings.
• Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleepiness, with vivid and unpleasant dreams.

Phase 2. The Withdrawal Phase

This phase of the withdrawal process lasts much longer than the first phase. While the duration varies for different individuals, it may last up to 10 weeks after stopping use. This phase often causes symptoms including:

• Persistent Cravings: Ongoing desire to use cocaine, though less intense than during the crash.
• Depression: Continued feelings of sadness and lack of pleasure, often accompanied by suicidal thoughts in severe cases.
• Lethargy and Fatigue: Ongoing tiredness and lack of motivation.
• Irritability and Mood Swings: Emotional instability and irritability.
• Anhedonia: Inability to feel pleasure from activities that were previously enjoyable.
• Anxiety: Ongoing feelings of tension and nervousness.
• Cognitive Impairments: Difficulty concentrating, impaired memory, and slower thinking.

Phase 3: The Extinction Phase

This phase is often a bit easier than the previous two phases, though it may last even longer – sometimes for several months after stopping use. This phase is typically associated with symptoms including:

• Intermittent Cravings: Occasional urges to use cocaine, often triggered by environmental cues or stress.
• Mood Instability: Fluctuations in mood and emotional responses, although less severe than in earlier phases.
• Continued Anhedonia: Persistent difficulty in experiencing pleasure, which gradually improves over time.

Factors Influencing the Duration and Severity of Cocaine Withdrawal

As mentioned, cocaine withdrawal symptoms vary significantly from one person to the next. A few of the factors that can influence the severity and duration of cocaine withdrawal symptoms include:

• Frequency and Amount of Use: Heavy, long-term users typically experience more severe withdrawal symptoms.
• Polydrug Use: Using other substances in conjunction with cocaine can complicate withdrawal and increase the risk of severe symptoms.
• Individual Health: Physical and mental health conditions can impact withdrawal severity.
• Support System: Access to a strong support network can ease the withdrawal process.

Treatment for Cocaine Withdrawal

Because cocaine withdrawal can often cause individuals to suffer from troubling symptoms, it is often advisable to seek professional help. Effective treatment for cocaine withdrawal involves a combination of medical intervention, therapy, and support. 

Most programs designed to help ease the symptoms of cocaine withdrawal and prevent relapses employ some or all of the following:

Medical Supervision

Healthcare professionals can provide a great deal of help for individuals experiencing cocaine withdrawal symptoms. Medical supervision typically involves two key components:

• Detox Programs: Supervised detox programs provide a safe environment for withdrawal, offering medical care to manage symptoms.
• Medications: Although no specific medications are approved for cocaine withdrawal, some drugs may help alleviate symptoms. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and medications for sleep disturbances are commonly prescribed by healthcare professionals.

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy is not only important for helping people with CUD cope with cocaine withdrawal symptoms, but it is also helpful for preventing relapses and keeping individuals on the path to recovery. 

Behavioral therapy often involves several distinct components, including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and change thought patterns that lead to cocaine use.
• Contingency Management: Offers rewards for abstinence and participation in treatment.
• Motivational Interviewing: Enhances motivation to change and commit to treatment.

Support Groups

Support groups – especially peer-oriented support groups – are invaluable for helping individuals cope with withdrawal symptoms and maintain a sober lifestyle. There are myriad support groups available, but two of the most popular types include:

• 12-Step Programs: Groups like Cocaine Anonymous offer peer support and guidance for individuals in recovery.
• SMART Recovery: A self-help program focused on self-empowerment and recovery management.

Holistic Approaches

In addition to approaches and techniques specifically intended to treat cocaine withdrawal symptoms, there are several holistic approaches that also prove helpful for many people. These are designed to promote overall health, and include:

• Exercise and Nutrition: Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can support physical recovery and improve mood.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Techniques that reduce stress and enhance emotional regulation.

Seeking Professional Assistance for Cocaine Withdrawal and Recovery

The journey to recovery from cocaine addiction is fraught with challenges, including intense withdrawal symptoms and potential relapse. Professional help is not just recommended; it is a critical component of a successful recovery process. 

Medical professionals in addiction treatment centers are equipped with the expertise to manage both the physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal. They provide a structured environment that supports individuals through the acute phase of detox and beyond.

• Medical support and monitoring during detox to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
• Access to evidence-based therapies to address the underlying causes of addiction.
• Long-term support to prevent relapse and promote sustained recovery.
• Personalized care plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs.

Given the complexity of addiction, a multidisciplinary approach is often necessary. Inpatient and outpatient treatment programs offer various levels of care to suit different stages of recovery. 

These programs incorporate a range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, contingency management, and motivational interviewing, which have been shown to be effective in treating cocaine addiction. Furthermore, the supportive environment of a treatment center can provide individuals with the tools and resources they need to rebuild their lives and maintain long-term sobriety.

For those considering recovery, reaching out to a reputable treatment center is a vital first step. It’s essential to choose a program that aligns with one’s personal recovery goals and offers a continuum of care to address all aspects of addiction. The importance of professional assistance cannot be overstated—it can make the difference between a temporary change and a lasting transformation.

Get Help Easing Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms and Achieving Sobriety

If you’re seeking addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one, The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper is here to help. 

Our facility is conveniently located within the heart of New Jersey, under 20 minutes from Philadelphia. We have a full range of treatment options, including medical detox, inpatient care, partial hospitalization programming and intensive outpatient services. We offer a state-of-the-art inpatient facility and have specialized options for trauma, including EMDR and a specialty track for veterans and first responders.  

If you or a loved one are ready to begin the journey toward a substance-free life, we’re standing by to take your call. Reach out to our Recovery Advocates to learn more about our treatment programs and find a plan that works well for your specific needs and situation.