Common Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms: Timeline, and Treatment

Cocaine is a highly addictive drug that produces almost instantaneous feelings of euphoria and motivation, making it among the most popular drugs in the U.S. society. An individual using cocaine for a long time becomes dependent on it. Quitting cocaine or cutting down its quantity without help from healthcare professionals or therapists could result in cocaine withdrawal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, anxiety, and insomnia. Therefore, always seek help from medically-administered cocaine detox to quickly and safely get cocaine out of your system.  

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What Happens During Cocaine Withdrawal?

When a person addicted to cocaine suddenly stops using it or reduces the amount they take, it triggers a reaction in the body and brain. This happens because both have become used to the drug’s presence. This reaction is known as withdrawal, which comes with various symptoms. These symptoms can be intense, such as fatigue, depression, and strong cravings, and may lead to serious mental health issues. While cocaine withdrawal is not usually fatal, it can be dangerous if not properly managed.

What Are the Symptoms of Cocaine Withdrawal?

Repeated cocaine use causes heavy production of dopamine. Gradually, the brain begins to decrease its natural dopamine production, rendering the natural reward system dysfunctional. When an individual abruptly stops using cocaine, the brain’s dysfunctional reward system takes time to heal, often weeks or even months. This dysfunction leads to the emergence of the following symptoms:  

a. Physical Symptoms

• Lack of energy and feelings of tiredness
• Muscle aches and pains
• Chills and tremors
• Persistent headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Excessive sweating

b. Mental Symptoms

• Agitation and irritability
• Insomnia, vivid dreams or nightmares, and, in some cases, excessive sleep
• Problems with memory, focus, and decision-making
• Lack of motivation or energy to engage in daily activities.
• Hallucinations, delusions, or an intense mistrust of others.

Seeking a certified rehab center in NJ or online assistance nationwide? Call ChoicePoint at 844.445.2565 to get guided about what treatment services the Cocaine rehab near me in New Jersey offers. Also, you can verify your insurance here, as we are in network with Aetna insurance, Blue Cross Blue Shield outpatient rehab, Blue Cross Blue Shield drug rehab coverage in NJ, Optum therapy rehab, United Health Care, and many other commercial insurance programs.

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How Long Does Cocaine Withdrawal Last?

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms typically appear within the first 24 hours, peak between 2 and 4 days, and gradually begin to subside over 7 to 10 days. In some individuals, the symptoms may linger for weeks or even months, which is called PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome).

What Is Cocaine Withdrawal Timeline And Stages?

According to a study 3by Michael J Li and Steven J Shoptaw in 2022, the severity of cocaine withdrawal comes in phases. Below is the breakdown of these phases:

Acute Phase (0–3 Days)

It starts within the 24 hours after the last use and shows symptoms like Fatigue and exhaustion, depression and anxiety, increased appetite, sleep disturbance, etc.

Acute Withdrawal Phase (4–7 Days)

During this phase, the individual feels an intense desire to use cocaine, experiences mood swings, faces anxiety and agitation, struggles against sleep disturbances, and is troubled by lack of concentration or memory lapses.

Early Protracted Phase (1–4 Weeks)

Symptoms during this phase include continuous desire for drug use, depression, anxiety, irritability, sleep problems, fatigue, etc.

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) (1–6 Months)

Below is a list of possible withdrawal symptoms during this phase:

• Depression can persist for months
• Sudden cravings triggered by stress or cues
• Continued anxiety, restlessness, and panic attacks
• Sleep disturbances like insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Lack of motivation to start or complete assigned tasks
• Trouble with concentration, memory issues, and slow thinking
• Inability to feel pleasure from normal activities (Anhedonia)

Factors Affecting Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms

Side Effects of Cocaine Withdrawal When Left Untreated

Quitting cocaine results in severe withdrawal symptoms that require proper medication, therapies, and 24/7 monitoring. A study by Heberle et al. 4(2024) emphasized the importance of medications during detox to alleviate symptoms, especially in individuals with psychiatric or social risk factors. Other symptoms include

• fatigue,
• lack of pleasure,
• anxiety,
• irritability,
• sleepiness,
• agitation
• extreme suspicion
• paranoia.

If you are mixing cocaine and alcohol, that could also result in severe side effects with potential dangers. That’s why cocaine detox is always strongly recommended by researchers and healthcare professionals.

How Cocaine Hijacks the Brain

Cocaine causes a strong increase in dopamine, a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) that makes people happy, motivated, and excited. These feelings are the natural rewards from the brain when someone eats food, meets friends, or does any other activity that is an essential part of human instinct for survival and reproduction. Cocaine, in a way, hijacks this reward system and disturbs the brain’s natural pathways. With repeated use, the brain becomes less responsive to natural pleasures and starts depending on cocaine to stimulate its reward system. This dependence on the drug can lead to cocaine addiction that requires quickly and safely getting cocaine out of your system.  

Cocaine Withdrawal Medications

Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for cocaine withdrawal. However, doctors and researchers are testing several options that might help. Below is the list of medicines that have shown promising results during the trial.

• Topiramate: Originally used for seizures and migraines, Topiramate may help reduce cocaine cravings and improve self-control.

• Modafinil: This is a “wakefulness” drug for people with sleep disorders. It might help with focus and reduce the urge to use cocaine.

• Varenicline: This is used to help people stop smoking. It might also work for cocaine addiction by affecting brain chemicals linked to cravings.

• Cocaine Vaccine (TA-CD): This vaccine trains the body to block cocaine from reaching the brain, which may help prevent relapse.
• TNX-1300 (Cocaine-Breaking Enzyme): This is an experimental enzyme that breaks down cocaine in the blood. It’s being tested for emergencies or overdose.

Remember: These medicines are still being tested and not yet approved for everyday use. If you or someone you know is dealing with cocaine addiction, it’s best to talk to a ChoicePoint online addiction specialist for safe and proven treatment options..

Free Addiction Assessment

Please note this assessment is an initial self-screening, and it is not meant to be a medical assessment or clinical diagnosis of addiction. For proper diagnosis and treatment, schedule an appointment with ChoicePoint.

What Surveys Say About Cocaine Addiction

Surveys and studies have come out with statistics that confirm its popularity and addictive effects. Here are some of the key figures reported by U.S. government agencies: 

1. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health 1 (NSDUH) 2023 report, about 1.3 million Americans 12 years old or older (0.4%) struggled with a cocaine use disorder in the past year. 
2. Of these individuals, 298,000 received inpatient treatment, while 542,000 received outpatient treatment. 
3. An estimated 29,918 Americans died from cocaine-related overdoses in 2023.
4. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2(CDC), cocaine related deaths increased by 4.9% (from 8.2 to 8.6  from 2022 to 2023.

Cocaine withdrawal is challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to ChoicePoint now by calling 844.445.2565 or filling out this form. We are also accepting commercial insurance programs, so you can start your recovery journey without any pressure. 

Comprehensive Treatment Options Following Cocaine Detox

Detox is just the first step in recovering from cocaine addiction. Once the body is cleared of the drug, it’s important to continue with treatment to stay clean and avoid relapse. Here are the most effective and commonly used options:

Behavioral Therapy

This type of therapy encourages talks with a trained therapist to help people understand why they used cocaine and how to change their behavior. Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is part of behavioral therapy that instructs people how to deal with triggers, manage stress, and avoid relapse.

Group Therapy

Group therapy enables individuals to share their experiences and offer mutual support. It helps reduce feelings of isolation and provides motivation.

Inpatient Cocaine Addiction Treatment

Patients are treated in an inpatient rehabilitation center where they receive 24/7 care, support, and monitoring. This is an expensive option, but a good choice for people with severe cocaine addiction or those who need to stay away from daily triggers.

IOP For Cocaine Addiction Treatment

Intensive outpatient program is a more affordable option and is suitable for individuals who need to continue their responsibilities at home or work. In this treatment program, people live at home but attend regular therapy and support sessions. Inpatient and IOP can offer similar outcomes, making intensive outpatient care a practical and cost-effective choice for treating cocaine addiction.

Aftercare Planning

Although there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for cocaine addiction, doctors might prescribe medicines to help with mood swings, sleep problems, cravings, and depression.

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Our Patients Facing Fears Regarding Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms 

The most common frequently asked questions by our patients and their loved ones;

How can I tell the difference between normal mood swings and cocaine withdrawal-related depression?

Multiple factors can help distinguish between normal mood swings and depression caused by cocaine withdrawal. Here is a list of these factors:

• Cocaine-related depressive symptoms appear within 24 hours after stopping cocaine use and can last for several weeks or even months. Normal mood swings don’t last so long.
• Cocaine withdrawal symptoms are severe, while mood fluctuations are short and less severe.
• Individuals may experience physical issues during the cocaine withdrawal phase. Physical symptoms in normal mood swings are very rare.

Can cocaine withdrawal symptoms appear even if I only used it occasionally?

Yes, cocaine withdrawal symptoms may appear even if you use it occasionally. This is because cocaine affects the dopamine system in the brain, even after just a few uses.

What role do co-occurring disorders like anxiety or ADHD play in withdrawal severity?

Co-occurring disorders like anxiety or ADHD can significantly increase the severity of cocaine withdrawal symptoms. People with anxiety disorders may feel more pain and agitation during the withdrawal phase. Those with ADHD often have trouble controlling their impulses and emotions. This can make them more likely to use cocaine again to feel “normal” or more in control.

What is the link between cocaine addiction and genetics?

According to a study 5, genetic factors may account for 40%–60% of a person’s risk of developing a substance use disorder. However, having a family history doesn’t guarantee someone will become addicted. Genes and life experiences often work together to shape a person’s relationship with substances.

Is suicidal thinking common during cocaine withdrawal?

Yes, depression and suicidal ideation can occur, particularly during the crash phase or early withdrawal. This happens due to a sharp drop in dopamine levels, which cocaine had previously boosted.

Sources

1. Heberle, B. A., Kluwe-Schiavon, B., Bicca, C., Rothmann, L. M., Grassi-Oliveira, R., & Viola, T. W. (2023). Examining predictors of cocaine withdrawal syndrome at the end of detoxification treatment in women with cocaine use disorder. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 169, 247–256.
   https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.11.043
2. Garnett, M. F., & Miniño, A. M. (2024). Drug overdose deaths in the United States, 2003–2023. NCHS Data Brief, No. 522. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
   https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db522.htm#section_5
3. Li, M. J., & Shoptaw, S. J. (2023). Clinical management of psychostimulant withdrawal: Review of the evidence. Addiction, 118(4), 603–615.
   https://doi.org/10.1111/add.16059
4. Heberle, B. A., Kluwe-Schiavon, B., Bicca, C., Rothmann, L. M., Grassi-Oliveira, R., & Viola, T. W. (2023). Examining predictors of cocaine withdrawal syndrome at the end of detoxification treatment in women with cocaine use disorder. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 169, 247–256.
   https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.11.043
5. Wang, J., Kapoor, M., & Goate, A. M. (2012). The genetics of substance dependence. Annual Review of Genomics and Human Genetics, 13(1), 241–261.
   https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-genom-090711-163844