Is Cocaine Crack?
Crack is a form of cocaine that comes in crystal rock form. Crack cocaine is often referred to as rock, candy or chemical. It causes a euphoric high when smoked or freebased that usually lasts for about 5 to 10 minutes. Users often report feeling a crash after the high wears off that makes them feel more depressed than before they used the drug. In attempt to feel that same high again, users may resort to using more and more of the drug and many end up facing an addiction.
What is Crack Cocaine?
Crack cocaine is a mixture of the pure form of cocaine which is harvested from the coca plant which grows in South America. Cocaine comes in a white powder that can be snorted, ingested or injected when mixed with water. The cocaine is mixed with baking soda and other ingredients to make a less expensive form of cocaine called crack. Once dried it is broken up into little pieces that look like white rocks. The finished product can be then be smoked causing an immediate high or “rush”. Crack was introduced in the 1980’s and has steadily been on the rise since then. Crack cocaine is considered to be more addictive than other forms of cocaine, but that fact is often debated, either way it is extremely dangerous.
Effects of Crack Cocaine
Crack cocaine can make you feel anxious.
According to NIDA, “Cocaine affects the body in a variety of ways. It constricts blood vessels, dilates pupils, and increases body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure.” Crack cocaine causes the user to feel extreme euphoria when smoked or freebased as it releases dopamine into the brain. It is an amphetamine or an “upper” so it causes an increase in energy and might cause the person to feel a false sense of confidence or make them feel invincible.
People often say that cocaine or crack cocaine is the drug of choice because it makes them feel capable of doing things that without the drug, they are not comfortable doing. It can make someone that is usually shy and introverted more talkative and social. It also suppresses appetite so others prefer cocaine or crack cocaine because they will often lose weight while taking the drug. It can also lead to extreme dehydration because it suppresses thirst. When coming down from the high users report feeling depressed and anxious and usually feel an intense craving to use the drug again. When a person surpasses recreational use of cocaine or crack cocaine and requires the drug regularly to function or feel “normal” they have become addicted and most will need to seek professional treatment to stop.
Consequences of Cocaine Use
Occasional or extended use of cocaine or crack cocaine can lead to tolerance, requiring the user to consume larger quantities of the drug to achieve the same effect which can result in the person becoming addicted to the drug. Addiction to cocaine in any form can lead to health problems and even death. It can disrupt families and lead to loss of employment. Users report being willing to do anything to obtain or use the drug find themselves resorting to criminal activity which can land the addict in jail or prison.