While drug use amongst veterans varies, cocaine abuse and addiction remain persistent problems amongst veteran communities. Veterans may use cocaine for a variety of reasons. Some veterans may use cocaine in an attempt to manage symptoms of depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)Â or to try and decrease inhibition that may have developed in connection with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Others may use cocaine due to its mental and emotional effects, such as feelings of increased confidence and energy.
Cocaine comes from the leaves of the coca bush (Erythroxylum coca), which is native to South America. Cocaine is a white powdery substance that reacts with the body’s central nervous system, producing energy and euphoria. There are 3 different forms of cocaine:Â
Cocaine hydrochloride: Cocaine hydrochloride is often mixed, or ‘cut’, with other substances such as lactose and glucose, to dilute it before being sold.
Crack: Crack cocaine is the crystal form of cocaine, which normally comes in a powder form. It comes in solid blocks or crystals varying in color from yellow to pale rose or white.
Freebase: a white powder that is more pure with less impurity than cocaine hydrochloride.
While crack and freebase are normally smoked and cocaine hydrochloride is most commonly snorted. It can also be injected, rubbed into the gums, added to drinks or food.
Effects of Cocaine
upredictable violent/aggressive behaviour
feeling more awake, reduced need for sleep
increased performance on simple tasks
enlarged (dilated) pupils
dry mouth
increased breathing rate
feelings of invincibility
a sense of wellbeing
increased talkativeness or quiet contemplation and rapture
increased confidence and a feeling of invincibility
feelings of great physical strength and mental capacity
increased libido
anxiety, agitation and panic
Overdose of Cocaine Can Result In:
nausea and vomiting
extreme anxiety
chest pain
panic
extreme agitation and paranoia
hallucinations
tremors
breathing irregularities
kidney failure
Rehab for Cocaine addiction
Detox where you go through withdrawal in a safe, supervised setting at either an inpatient or outpatient facility. For best results, this should be followed with additional treatment.
Impatient/residential rehab, where you stay at a staffed facility around the clock while receiving support and treatment.
Outpatient programs or varying levels of intensity. For example, in relatively intensive outpatient treatment settings, you may expect to receive up to 20 weekly treatment hours at regularly scheduled appointments. However, outside of treatment hours, you may be able to continue working, attending school, and participating in your typical home life.
Before the completion of any treatment program, an aftercare plan—which may involve private counseling, sober living arrangements, as well as regular self- or mutual-help meeting attendance—will be devised to provide an extra layer of support for you after completing drug addiction treatment.
 Honorably discharged Veterans, who qualify, will receive substance abuse treatment services at NO COST. Call Thornton and Associates Veteran Services to speak with one of our Addiction Specialists at (626) 482-3478 for a free, confidential consultation to verify if you qualify.