The destructive capacity and dependence on cocaine.
Cocaine is one of the most destructive drugs for human beings. However, it remains one of the least feared. This is probably because its dependence goes unnoticed: it is associated with leisure and festive moments, it does not require daily use, and it is easy to obtain.
As we read in El Periódico, a recent statistic carried out in Catalonia reveals that 4.4% of the Catalan population uses cocaine and that this proportion is increasing. The destructive capacity of cocaine is summed up in its most devastating consequences:
- It alters cardiac, brain and psychological functions
- It wipes out the family’s financial assets
- It destroys working life and cuts off the circle of friends
Environmental factors in cocaine dependence
Researchers into cocaine dependence point out that there are very important environmental factors that influence addiction. In certain places, environments and contexts, you need the drug again. For this reason, Dr Rafael de la Torre, from the Neurosciences Institute at Hospital del Mar, acknowledges that to end addiction it is necessary to change social habits and avoid certain places or friendships. In many cases, the usefulness of inpatient centres is beyond dispute.
When you start using cocaine, even if you increase the frequency of use, it is difficult to be aware of dependence. Normally, addiction to it begins to be perceived when the person experiences intense fatigue, sleepiness and hunger. And this can lead to suffering the most adverse effects of its use:
- Heart rhythm disturbances
- Hypertension
- Cerebrovascular deterioration, risk of suffering a stroke
- Possibility of epileptic episodes
- Psychotic episodes
- Delusions, impulsivity, paranoia
Help to quit cocaine
After alcohol, dependence on coke is the second most common reason for requesting treatment to quit a drug handled by Catalan hospitals, above heroin and cannabis (note that those affected by marijuana use are approaching the figures for “coke”).
At CCAdicciones the first appointment is free. Request information with no obligation on 902 400 426.
