Cocaine Withdrawal

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Cocaine Withdrawal Treatment

Symptoms are treated as appropriate. Unlike other withdrawal syndromes (such as that associated with alcohol), cocaine withdrawal does not progress to serious or life-threatening complications, though there is a risk of suicide or compensatory overdose.

Symptoms usually resolve completely over time. People experiencing cocaine withdrawal often attempt to self-medicate with alcohol, sedatives, hypnotics, or antianxiety agents, such as diazepam (Valium). This should be discouraged as it is possible to simply shift the addiction from one drug to another.

Since at least 50% of cocaine addicts have a co-existing mental disorder (particularly depression and attention-deficit disorder), these conditions must be looked for and treated aggressively.

Relapse rates are dramatically reduced for people with these conditions who are treated appropriately. Stimulants (such as Ritalin) should not be withheld from people with ADD who have developed cocaine addiction, although use should be carefully monitored. Antidepressants should never be withheld.