Many different categories exist for classifying drugs. Two of the most common are stimulants and depressants. Is cocaine a stimulant or depressant? In Murrieta, California—and likely elsewhere, too—some drugs exist in more than one category. That is not the case for cocaine, as this drug is purely a stimulant. Understanding what it means for cocaine to be a stimulant is crucial if you are looking to get yourself or someone you love help due to their struggles with cocaine abuse. One reason is that the signs of drug abuse when a stimulant is involved vs. a depressant are very different.
Learn more about cocaine abuse and cocaine addiction treatment in Murrieta, California, by calling 833.999.1941.
Is Cocaine a Stimulant or Depressant?
Before exploring cocaine abuse and treatment in more detail, it’s worth clarifying the answers to two fundamental questions:
- Is cocaine a stimulant?
- Is cocaine a depressant?
The answers are summed up as follows: Cocaine is a stimulant, not a depressant. Other drugs occupy more than one category. In the case of cocaine, it is only considered a stimulant.
But what does that mean? Drugs that are stimulants produce alertness, energy, and concentration. They also suppress fatigue or the need for sleep. Cocaine use produces energy and euphoria. It is also highly addictive. Stimulants like cocaine also produce elevated heart rates, high blood pressure, anxiety, and paranoia. They are especially dangerous to use in people who have a pre-existing heart condition.
Common Side Effects of Cocaine Abuse
Using cocaine comes with all the hallmarks of stimulants. That means people struggling with cocaine abuse receive a boost of energy and concentration while feeling a euphoric rush. Those positive impacts are tempered by cocaine’s addictive nature and the many adverse side effects of cocaine abuse. These include:
- Irritability
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Erratic or dangerous behavior
- Hallucinations
The initial energy boost is unsustainable for the body. Thus, an inevitable crash will follow. Depressed moods and cravings often set in during this crash. Cocaine abuse can also alter how the brain functions in profound ways. Things like memory, attention, and decision-making are all impacted by repeated cocaine abuse.
Recognizing Cocaine Addiction
Knowledge about cocaine’s categorization as a stimulant and its many side effects helps determine whether you or someone you love requires formal treatment. Asking, “Is cocaine a stimulant or depressant?” is a great starting point. At Solution Based Treatment & Detox in Murrieta, California, we believe that starting point should lead someone to comprehensive treatment that addresses the root of their cocaine abuse. Part of addressing drug abuse is learning to recognize the signs of addiction or abuse.
It may not always be easy to recognize cocaine addiction. Even if you suspect a loved one is abusing cocaine, pinning down the problem or helping them see the need for help is more complex. One sign to watch for is related to sleep habits. Cocaine will inevitably mess with a person’s sleep and energy levels in between instances of use. Other cocaine abuse or addiction symptoms include sudden weight changes, financial issues, relationship problems, secretive behavior, or mood swings.
Address Cocaine as an Addictive Stimulant in Murrieta, California
Is cocaine a stimulant or depressant? As mentioned earlier, it is a stimulant. In Murrieta, California, Solution Based Treatment & Detox understands the impact cocaine has on people as a stimulant. Our clients can expect comprehensive, compassionate care involving detox, medical supervision, support through withdrawal symptoms, and therapy.
Cocaine is a stimulant that causes immense disruption to people’s lives and can take over their relationships. Call 833.999.1941 to learn more about how Solution Based Treatment & Detox tackles cocaine abuse and addiction.