Cocaine use is a prevalent problem throughout the world. In America alone, there are an estimated 1.5 million people, ages 12 and older, that are chronic users of the narcotic. On a positive note, this number is down considerably from the estimated 5.7 million users 25 years ago. Even with the improvements, the problem is extremely significant and cocaine addiction treatment continues to provide important treatment to those addicted.
The introduction of new, highly sophisticated technology may help to guide the development of new medications intended to treat cocaine addiction. Science is now allowing scientists to look at the effects on the human brain as subjects use cocaine. They can observe the different changes that occur in the brain when the drug is introduced to the subject, while the subject is feeling the rush of being high, and while the subject is craving their next fix. They can also track the impact of environmental queues and social stimulus which lead to cravings. This information can prove to be instrumental in identifying highly effective cocaine addiction treatment regimens.
Traditional cocaine treatment programs tend to have a high rate of patient relapse, ranging from 75 – 90% of participants relapsing within the first year after being released from treatment. Short-term inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation often times suffers these high rates of failure. Long term treatment, which can focus on treatment of the biological effects of cocaine use and the underlying emotional pain which often leads to drug use, has proven to be a much more successful option for chronic addicts.
Individuals will have differing levels of success dependent upon their personalities and the type of treatment they receive. One of the ideologies that have been introduced with some success is the addition of contingency management programs. These programs offer rewards to addicts for remaining cocaine free. Patients with drug free urine tests are rewarded with points that can be accumulated and redeemed for items that promote a healthy lifestyle, such as a gym membership or a gift certificate for dinner and a movie. By providing this type of positive reinforcement, addicts are encouraged to continue living a healthier lifestyle and keeping themselves sober.
Research has shown that cocaine dependency occurs within 2 years for 5-6% of those that try it, and that number jumps to 15-16% after 10 years. Women have shown to be 3.3 times more likely than men to become addicted.
Recovery Plus Offers personalized treatment programs to fit each individual participant. If you know someone suffering from addiction to cocaine, please allow us to help. Call 866-9-ToQuit (888-986-7848), fill out the form to the right of this page, or click the live chat button.
