What are the signs of cocaine addiction?

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug with the potential to cause devastating physical, psychological, and social consequences. It is one of the most commonly abused illicit substances in the UK1, which has the second-highest rates of cocaine use2 in the world (only behind Australia). 

Despite its reputation as a recreational drug, cocaine addiction affects people from all walks of life, including high-profile figures like Stephen King3, Kate Moss4, and Elton John5. Similarly, cocaine is often touted as the “drug of choice” for C-suite executives, bankers6, and leaders in the business world.

But as addiction takes hold, it can cause profound damage to health, relationships, and overall quality of life. As Stephen King has said, since overcoming addiction and reflecting on the substance abuse disorder: 

“With cocaine, one snort, and it just owned my body and soul. Something in my system wanted that, and once it was there it was like the missing link: click. Like when you turn on lights, it’s on or off, there’s no half way. Cocaine was like my ‘on’ switch.”

– Stephen King

This blog explores the signs of cocaine addiction, to help healthcare professionals recognise and support patients in need. If you know someone who may be struggling with cocaine addiction, contact us now. 

What cocaine is 

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant, primarily grown in South America. The drug is processed into two main forms: 

• A white powder (cocaine hydrochloride)
• A crystalline substance known as ‘crack’ cocaine

Cocaine is typically snorted, smoked, or injected, depending on its form. 

Its effects are rapid and intense, contributing to its high potential for misuse7 and dependence8. Historically used for medicinal purposes9, cocaine is now classified as a Class A drug in the UK10 due to its addictive potential and significant health risks.

Its neurochemical mechanisms 

Cocaine primarily acts on the brain’s reward system by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation. This leads to an accumulation of dopamine in the synaptic cleft, resulting in intense euphoria and heightened energy11. 

The drug also affects serotonin and norepinephrine pathways, contributing to its stimulant effects12. 

Chronic use disrupts normal neurotransmitter functioning, causing significant alterations in brain structure and chemistry. Over time, these changes drive compulsive drug-seeking behaviours and increase the risk of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms.

1. Physical signs of cocaine addiction 

Cocaine addiction manifests in various physical symptoms, many of which can be severe or life-threatening. Some of the most common include:

• Dilated pupils: a hallmark of stimulant use
• Weight loss: resulting from decreased appetite13
• Frequent nosebleeds: due to damage to nasal tissues from snorting
• Cardiovascular issues: elevated heart rate, hypertension, and increased risk of heart attacks14
• Tremors or muscle twitches: indicative of overstimulation of the nervous system

Long-term use may also lead to more serious complications such as respiratory distress, weakened immune function, and irreversible damage15 to vital organs. 

2. Psychological signs of cocaine addiction 

Cocaine profoundly impacts mental health, leading to various psychological symptoms, including:

• Mood swings: alternating between euphoria and irritability
• Paranoia: including delusional feelings of being watched or persecuted16
• Anxiety and depression: often exacerbated during withdrawal periods
• Impaired decision-making: reduced ability to evaluate risks and consequences
• Obsessive drug thoughts: a preoccupation with obtaining and using cocaine

Chronic use can also contribute to more severe psychiatric disorders, including psychosis and suicidal ideation17.

3. Behavioural signs of cocaine addiction 

“Cocaine made me talk forever. The most nonsensical rubbish you could ever think of.”

– Elton John 

Behavioural changes often provide the most visible indications of cocaine addiction. Key behaviours include:

• Increased risk-taking: engaging in dangerous activities, such as unprotected sex or driving under the influence18
• Neglecting responsibilities: failing to meet work, school, or family obligations
• Erratic mannerisms: including excessive talking, fidgeting, or apparent restlessness19
• Isolation: avoiding friends and family to conceal addiction
• Irregular sleep patterns: alternating between insomnia and excessive sleeping

These behaviours not only harm the individual’s wellbeing, but also strain relationships with loved ones and disrupt daily functioning.

4. Social signs of cocaine addiction 

Often following as a direct consequence of behavioural changes, the social impacts of cocaine addiction may be significant, and can lead to:

• Strained relationships: increased conflict20 with family and friends
• Workplace issues: poor performance, absenteeism, or job loss
• Legal problems: arrests or charges related to possession or behaviour under the influence
• Social withdrawal: a tendency to avoid21 social interactions
• Association with high-risk groups: increased interaction with others who misuse substances

Recognising the need for intervention

Many individuals struggling with cocaine addiction may not recognise the severity of their problem22. Key warning signs that indicate the need for professional help include:

Healthcare practitioners play a pivotal role in identifying these red flags and guiding patients towards evidence-based treatment options for cocaine addiction. 

The bottom line

Cocaine addiction is a complex and multifaceted condition that impacts every aspect of an individual’s life: from physical health, to relationships and social stability. 

By understanding the physical, psychological, behavioural, and social signs of addiction, healthcare professionals can better identify and support those in need. 

Recovery is a challenging but achievable process – especially with expert, curated care. Harbor London provides individually-tailored, confidential treatment plans to address the root causes of addiction and guide patients towards lasting recovery. 

Make a referral today to help someone take that first step in the journey.

References

1. https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/articles/drugmisuseinenglandandwales/yearendingmarch2023
2. https://www.lbc.co.uk/news/uk-second-highest-rate-cocaine-use-globally/
3. https://www.theguardian.com/books/2000/sep/14/stephenking.fiction1
4. https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2022/jul/24/kate-moss-desert-island-discs-cocaine-use-johnny-depp
5. https://www.biography.com/musicians/elton-john-drugs-alcohol-addiction
6. https://www.theguardian.com/business/shortcuts/2013/apr/15/cocaine-bankers-global-financial-crisis
7. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/stimulants/cocaine/risks-effects-dangers
8. https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/mental-illnesses-and-mental-health-problems/cocaine-dependence
9. https://www.healthline.com/health/medical-cocaine
10. https://www.gov.uk/penalties-drug-possession-dealing
11. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2774931/
12. https://www.jefferson.edu/academics/colleges-schools-institutes/skmc/departments/neurosurgery/research/cocaine-effects-norepinephrine-mygdala.html
13. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3863945/#:~:text=Cocaine%20use%20was%20associated%20with,did%20not%20differ%20across%20groups.
14. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8136464/#:~:text=Cocaine%20use%20is%20prevalent%20and,disease%2C%20and%20ischemic%20heart%20disease.
15. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10794786/
16. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC181074/#:~:text=Paranoia%20occurs%20in%2068%25%20to%2084%25%20of%20patients%20using%20cocaine.,-5%2C6&text=Cocaine%2Dinduced%20paranoia%20can%20be,long%20as%20days%20or%20weeks.&text=Prior%20exposure%20to%20cocaine%20has,suspiciousness%2C%20a%20precursor%20to%20paranoia.
17. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9375660/
18. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5283863/#:~:text=Cocaine%20use%20disorders%20(CUDs)%20have,cocaine%20user’s%20heightened%20risk%2Dtaking.
19. https://recoverycentersofamerica.com/blogs/5-signs-cocaine-addiction-may-be-developing-in-a-loved-one/#:~:text=Erratic%20behavior%2C%20hyperactivity%20and%20mood,substance%20abuse%20rehab%20is%20needed.
20. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9451050/
21. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4295122/
22. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/addiction-denial