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Crack Withdrawal & Detox Treatment

Written by Thomas Christiansen

& Medically Reviewed by Benjamin Caleb Williams, RN

Medically Reviewed

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This article was reviewed by a medical professional to guarantee the delivery of accurate and up-to- date information. View our research policy.

Last Updated - 6/17/2022

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Crack is the concentrated, solid form of cocaine that is usually smoked instead of snorted. The active ingredient of crack, cocaine, is a type of drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant. Crack is a stimulant and consuming it leads to sensations of alertness, confidence, superiority and decreased inhibition.

The high experienced with crack appears faster and more intense than the high from powdered cocaine. The high and stimulatory effects that crack causes create intense cravings for the drug and typically lead to addiction.

People in Washington who have an addiction to cocaine have many treatment options available to them. The Recovery Village Ridgefield specializes in treating addiction alongside co-occurring mental health disorders. If you’re ready to begin treatment, call a representative to begin the treatment process. For individuals curious about why professional treatment is recommended, understanding the withdrawal process and symptoms can illuminate the necessity of professional involvement.

Crack Withdrawal

Crack withdrawal symptoms occur when someone stops using crack after a prolonged period of habitual use. Crack withdrawal can lead to uncomfortable and dangerous symptoms that should be monitored and treated by experienced healthcare professionals. Crack withdrawal is typically shorter than the withdrawal period of many recreationally-used substances, including powdered cocaine. The brevity is because crack is absorbed by the body faster than most other types of drugs.

Crack Withdrawal Symptoms

Crack withdrawal symptoms occur when the effects of crack wear off and the amount of the drug within the body decreases. Typically, the severity of symptoms depends upon the volume and frequency of crack use. Symptoms of crack withdrawal include:

  • Fatigue
  • Sleepiness
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Agitation
  • Nightmares
  • Paranoia
  • Depression
  • Suicidal thoughts

While crack withdrawal does not create the same types of severe physical symptoms experienced when withdrawing from other substances, it does cause many distressing psychological symptoms, like continued cravings. The most dangerous psychological symptom is the depression can develop during and following crack withdrawal due to the physical and psychological stressors of the withdrawal process. Someone withdrawing from crack should be closely monitored by health care professionals to ensure that any developing depression is promptly and correctly treated.

Crack Detox Timeline

Crack is used by the body much faster than most other types of drugs, including powdered cocaine. This accelerated processing makes the crack cocaine withdrawal timeline shorter than the timelines associated with other types of substance detox. Typically, crack detox starts about thirty minutes after the drug has last been used and can last up to ten days. This timeline can vary, however, based on the amount and frequency of crack use.

Finding Crack Detox in Washington

When looking for a treatment facility for crack detox in Washington, there are several aspects to consider:

  • The location of the treatment facility – A fresh setting may increase the effectiveness of treatment. Inpatient treatment provides an escape from triggering settings and may contribute to a stronger recovery.
  • The cost of treatment –  Finding an affordable treatment facility is also a common concern. A clear understanding of insurance coverage and other financial options is important when searching for a detox center.
  • The detox center’s reputation – Evaluate a treatment center’s reputation online by checking reviews and talking to people who received treatment there. Nationwide brands are typically more reputable than individual clinics.
  • Inpatient versus outpatient treatment – People who use crack infrequently or in smaller amounts may exclusively utilize outpatient treatment. People who use large or frequent doses of crack will likely benefit more from inpatient treatment.
  • Follow-up care – To succeed at maintaining sobriety, it is important to have strong follow-up care. Treatment should involve a robust follow-up care plan.

At the Recovery Village Ridgefield, caring professionals experienced with helping people manage their addictions are ready to help you through your unique challenges. If you or a loved one struggle with a crack addiction, contact The Recovery Village Ridgefield today to learn how we can help you begin treatment for your addiction.

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