.GENERAL INFORMATION.Media.Frequently Asked Questions.Why Are Drugs So Addictive?.DRUG EFFECTS.Drugs and Pregnancy.GET HELP.SIGNS OF DRUG ABUSE.Sections.General Information.Media.Frequently Asked Questions.Why Are Drugs So Addictive?.Drug Effects.Drugs and Pregnancy.Get Help.Signs of Drug Abuse. Reviewed ByIs Crack Harmful?Since it first appeared on the illicit drug scene during the 1980s, has solidified its reputation as one of the most addictive substances available on the street. According to the National Drug Intelligence Center, part of its popularity is due to the fact that almost anyone can make it, provided that he has the right tools. Additionally, it can be produced in smaller, easily transported quantities that are cheaper to buy than powdered cocaine. A common method of production involves mixing cocaine with ammonia, baking soda and water.
As the water dissolves, dried crystals, known as crack cocaine, form.Users typically insufflate (snort) or first dissolve in solution, then inject powdered cocaine. However, people who use crack typically smoke the substance. While uncommon, crack can also be dissolved in aqueous solution and injected, similarly to its powdered counterpart. Smoking the drug produces a than snorting does because it reaches the bloodstream and brain more quickly. However, the effects of smoking cocaine are shorter in duration, lasting only 5 to 10 minutes verses 15 to 30 minutes for insufflated powder. While users claim to feel euphoric or high when using crack, there are some paradoxical drawbacks to using crack; the initial euphoria can quickly turn to feelings of depression and paranoia.The short-term physical and mental effects of using crack are generally more intense than the effects from snorting powdered cocaine and are similar to what is experienced when injecting cocaine.
Potential for Crack Cocaine AddictionAccording to an article in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology, crack use is associated with a higher rate of dependence than use of powdered cocaine.Crack cocaine gives the user an intense, euphoric feeling. The a person uses crack, he or she feels an initial high that cannot be recreated by subsequent use. Users sometimes describe this as a feeling unlike anything else in the world.Once the person experiences this initial high, he may spend years trying to chase this feeling as tolerance to the drug effects develop rapidly. In these attempts, he may take increasing amounts, putting himself of risk of overdose.This pattern of compulsively chasing an elusive euphoric feeling is a fundamental component leading to a diagnosable mental condition known formally as 'crack use disorder'—but, more commonly as addiction.
Crack Cocaine Side Effects
It can only take one use for a person to be well on their way to forming an addiction to crack.Video: Crack Cocaine and Your BrainThe following video shows how your brain is affected by crack cocaine use and how using it can lead to dependence, addiction, and an array of negative effects. Because crack use itself is known to cause depression and anxiety, using it to alleviate the onset of these feelings becomes a vicious cycle—one that can quickly result in addiction.People of any age and gender can become dependent on crack. Crack dependency occurs after users develop a tolerance to the drug and begin using more often and in larger amounts to achieve the desired effects.This frequent exposure to crack cocaine causes users to depend on this substance to help them avoid negative moods and feelings; those ensnared by a crack dependency will experience extreme anxiety when they are not able to obtain the drug. GENERAL DISCLAIMER: Drugabuse.com is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice. The information provided through Drugabuse.com should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider.
Crack Cocaine Withdrawal
The authors, editors, producers, and contributors shall have no liability, obligation, or responsibility to any person or entity for any loss, damage, or adverse consequences alleged to have happened directly or indirectly as a consequence of material on this website. If you believe you have a medical emergency, you should immediately call 911. How Our Helpline WorksFor those seeking addiction treatment for themselves or a loved one, the DrugAbuse.com helpline is a private and convenient solution.Calls to any general helpline (non-facility specific 1-8XX numbers) for your visit will be answered by American Addiction Centers (AAC).We are standing by 24/7 to discuss your treatment options. Our representatives work solely for AAC and will discuss whether an AAC facility may be an option for you.Our helpline is offered at no cost to you and with no obligation to enter into treatment. Neither DrugAbuse.com nor AAC receives any commission or other fee that is dependent upon which treatment provider a visitor may ultimately choose.For more information on AAC’s commitment to ethical marketing and treatment practices, or to learn more about how to select a treatment provider, visit our page.If you wish to explore additional treatment options or connect with a specific rehab center, you can.