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Crack Cocaine Addiction Treatment in the UK

What This Page Covers show
Find crack addiction help in England and Wales
What Is Crack?
Difference Between Crack And Cocaine
What are the Main Causes of Crack Addiction?
Environment
Genetics
Gradual Tolerance Building
“Feel good Factor”
What are the Tell-Tale Signs of Crack Addiction?
Long Term Effects of Crack Use
Symptoms of a loved one being on Crack
How is Crack Addiction Treated?
Detoxing from Crack
Crack Withdrawal Symptoms During Detox
Medically Assisted Detox
Rehab for Crack Addiction
What Happens After Rehab?
Crack Addiction Treatment Timeline
How much does rehab for crack addiction cost?
What sort of therapy will I get in rehab for Crack addiction?
Free Crack Addiction Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I get arrested for taking crack cocaine?
How do you know if your loved one is using crack?
When should I have a crack addict intervention for a loved one?
How big a problem is crack addiction, London?
How long does it take for crack to leave your system?
Does Crack addiction make you look different?
What makes crack cocaine highly addictive?
Where can I get help for crack addiction in the UK?
What are the stages of recovering from crack addiction?
What happens when you are a crack addict?

Last updated on May 3rd, 2022 at 04:12 pm

Find crack addiction help in England and Wales

*This page was medically reviewed by Dr Robert Lefever on 9th April 2021.

Just like regular cocaine, crack is an addictive substance. Addictive substances draw us in with highs, only to take all our money, damage our health long term, and drive away those that love us most. If you have a crack addiction, this is your calling: it’s time to stop smoking crack and get help.

This article will talk you through all you need to know about crack addiction and how you can get treatment for it.

 

What Is Crack?

Crack is a common form of cocaine. As such, it is either referred to as crack or crack cocaine as well as a variety of other slang terms. If you find it in the room of a family member or a loved one, it would look like tiny, smashed, pieces of soap. It is incredibly popular because it is one of the fastest working forms of the substance. When you get high from crack, the substance reaches the brain in about ten seconds.

Crack is known by a variety of names on the street. This includes:

  • Tornado
  • Chemical
  • Sleep
  • Hail
  • Dice
  • Nuggets
  • Rocks
  • Base
  • Ball
  • Candy
  • Rock Candy

The drug comes in a crystal form and is often sold as a power. It can also be sold in solid blocks which are either yellow, rose pink or white. To take crack cocaine a user will heat the substance and then smoke it. When heated it makes a cracking noise and this is where it gets its name. Crack cocaine has become popular for a variety of reasons and as such, crack addiction is incredibly dangerous.

Difference Between Crack And Cocaine

As already mentioned one of the main differences between crack and normal cocaine is how quickly it provides the effect users are looking for. It is also the most potent form of this particular drug. It can be anything between 75% and 100% pure. This is far stronger than the typical cocaine that you might purchase on the market. Unlike other forms of cocaine, crack will be smoked, rather than snorted or injected. It is powder cocaine mixed with baking soda and water. In contrast, regular cocaine is hydro-chloride salt in a powder form.

Another key difference is the cost of the drug. Cocaine is often considered a rich man’s drug because it is incredibly expensive. Crack on the other hand is a lot cheaper. Unfortunately, this means that virtually anyone can buy it and get the high that they want. It is indeed possible for teens to be able to afford this drug with their lunch money. That’s how cheap it is.

What are the Main Causes of Crack Addiction?

Crack can be addictive for a variety of reasons. As a drug, crack cocaine provides one of the highest levels of psychological dependency. There are other factors that influence your likeliness to become a drug addict, though, crack or otherwise.

Environment

The environment you grew up in, the people you surround yourself with, and the places you frequent, will all impact whether you become addicted to crack cocaine. Even things like racial and socioeconomic environmental factors in childhood can attribute to your drug use, as some studies suggest[vii]. Other studies have shown multiple environmental factors that can contribute towards addiction, with stress[viii] being a notable factor.

Genetics

Some babies can be born already addicted to drugs. This isn’t the true meaning of genetic propensity towards drug abuse and addiction, though. If your DNA is programmed a certain way, studies have shown you are at greater risk of becoming addicted that those without your genetic markers[ix].

Gradual Tolerance Building

People don’t often start with crack. Instead, they may begin with a lower class of drug and then build to crack as they search for greater highs. This can be due to peer pressure or even mental health issues. Many individuals do develop a drug addiction because they are looking to cope with a problem in their life. Since it is so cheap, crack is often considered one of the best possibilities available.

“Feel good Factor”

Crack is a stimulant. Upon taking it, the drug provides a strong feeling of euphoria. The fact that it is short lived makes the substance more addictive because individuals want to take another hit immediately. The other problem is that the drug quickly causes tolerance to build. As such, the second hit may not provide the same high. Instead, users will need to up the dosage to get the same kick that they experienced before. This happens with every few uses and each time, the addiction grows.

What are the Tell-Tale Signs of Crack Addiction?

You might be worried that your loved one or family member has an addiction to this drug. Here are some of the signs of crack addiction that you should watch out for. People who are on this drug or who have used it multiple times may have:

  • Dilated pupils
  • Dry mouth and nose
  • Bad breath
  • Muscle spasms
  • Shaking

If you’re worried, they have been smoking it in the house, you might notice an unpleasant smell. This is like burning plastic, mixed with chemicals.

Long Term Effects of Crack Use

If you continue to take crack, you can expect the following long term effects:

  • Irritable
  • Argumentative
  • Violent
  • Erratic
  • Not interested in food
  • Suffering from trouble sleeping
  • Unable to maintain focus on a conversation

Symptoms of a loved one being on Crack

If you are worried about a loved one using crack cocaine, there are symptoms of using crack that can help you be certain. Some common side effects of being high on crack are:

  • Enlarged pupils
  • Nausea
  • Increased anxiety
  • Unpredictable behaviour
  • Temperature spikes
  • Trouble breathing
  • Severe depression and anxiety – due to an inability to get the drug they crave
  • Suicidal thoughts – again often due to inability to get the drug they need.
  • Vivid hallucinations – this can cause self-mutilation
  • Parkinson’s Disease – this condition becomes far more common after taking crack
  • Difficulty functioning sexually
  • Malnourishment – food becomes less important, and the drug becomes the focus of their life
  • Paranoia

Even after one use, it’s possible that you will suffer from a stroke, seizures or even a heart attack. It’s not uncommon for individuals to enter into a coma after using the drug for the first time.

How is Crack Addiction Treated?

Crack addiction can be treated if you spot it. The first step in any addiction is recognising you have a problem. The second step is to find the right rehab clinic for you – which we can help you with. Later, rehab will get you over the worst of the crack withdrawal symptoms and will help you get back to normal.

Detoxing from Crack

The first step is always going to be a full drug detox. This is completed in a safe environment as drug withdrawal symptoms can be severe. It also ensures that users get through the painful depression that comes after even one use. Symptoms of withdrawal can last anywhere from several days to multiple months. Symptoms can also disappear and then emerge at any time.

Crack Withdrawal Symptoms During Detox

The length of symptoms will typically depend on how long the drug is used; how much is used as well as a full medical history. You may experience number of Crack withdrawal symptoms including:

  • Cravings
  • Nightmares
  • Insomnia
  • Fatigue
  • Severe levels of anxiety
  • Tremors
  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea

This is all part of the crack rehab process and experts will be there every step of the way helping you to avoid relapse.

Detoxing from Crack starts between 1 hour and 2 days after your last use. It will continue for up to ten days.

Medically Assisted Detox

Although there are no medications known to stop withdrawal symptoms from crack cocaine, the doctor may prescribe Buspirone as it reduces anxiety in crack patients.

Rehab for Crack Addiction

Rehab treatment is the second stage of recovering from a crack addiction. It will typically include cognitive behavioural therapy as well as support groups. Group therapy is effective as it provides individuals who you can lean on for support and advice.  

Usually, a full rehab treatment will last between 30 and 90 days. However, if the addiction is more serious it can be significantly longer. The main idea is to ensure that you are prepare and ready for the challenges that you will face when you return to society.

What Happens After Rehab?

Even after the first stages of rehab recovery are complete, it’s likely that you will need additional help and support. This often includes ongoing telephone support or counselling where individuals must tackle their addiction over time. After rehab, you go through secondary treatment. This is to give you the best chance at relapse prevention in future.

Crack Addiction Treatment Timeline

The crack addiction detox process lasts around two weeks, with rehab taking anything up to 90 days. You will feel the crack withdrawal symptoms intensely for the first 3-10 days, but if you can get through this period, it will get better.

How much does rehab for crack addiction cost?

You might be worried about the cost of crack rehab. Well, we’re here to say that it can be more affordable than you think. In exceptional cases, it can even be provided for free by the NHS. The issue here is that if you reach the emergency room due to a crack addiction, you will already have probably suffered life-changing injuries. There is also typically a long wait during which relapses are common. As such, it’s best to opt for private treatment. Standard costs are currently between £2000 and £6000 for private facilities. It’s also possible to find considerably cheaper options that are far more budget-friendly.

What sort of therapy will I get in rehab for Crack addiction?

There are several types of therapy that you can get in a rehab clinic to help you recover from your crack addiction. It is likely that you will undergo a variety of therapy types while you recover. Some common techniques are:

  •       Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – a talking therapy that explores past actions and reactions
  •       Dialectical Behavioural Therapy – DBT is CBT specially designed for the emotionally attuned[x]
  •       Motivational Interviewing – helps you examine your past motivations and set future goals[xi]
  •       Group therapy – will help you gain the shared experience of your group.

Other therapy types include 1-on-1 sessions with a psychologist and specialist sessions offered by unique clinics. Examples might be animal-assisted therapy or holistic practises.

Free Crack Addiction Consultation

You can get a free consultation for crack addiction to examine your options in rehab clinics. Follow the instructions at the top of the page to get started. Alternatively, you can give us a call. After providing advice, we’ll find the right rehab centre for you in the UK and make sure that you are immediately put in contact with them. There’s no wait, no delays, no issues and absolutely no judgement here. Stop suffering in silence and start getting the crack treatment you need with our help and expertise, call 0203 955 7700 and speak to an expert.

[i] https://www.webmd.com/connect-to-care/addiction-treatment-recovery/cocaine/how-long-does-crack-cocaine-stay-in-your-system

 

[ii] https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-cocaine-high-last

 

[iii] https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/crack-cocaine-increase-inquiry-findings/increase-in-crack-cocaine-use-inquiry-summary-of-findings

 

[iv] https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/people-who-inject-drugs-hiv-and-viral-hepatitis-monitoring

[v] https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/articles/drugmisuseinenglandandwales/yearendingmarch2020

[vi] https://www.statista.com/statistics/612137/crack-use-during-past-month-in-the-us/

[vii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4924064/

[viii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6308142/

[ix] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25247548/

[x] https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/talking-therapy-and-counselling/dialectical-behaviour-therapy-dbt/

[xi] https://motivationalinterviewing.org/understanding-motivational-interviewing

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Will I get arrested for taking crack cocaine?

Getting caught with crack cocaine on your person is essentially the same as being caught with Class A drugs. The more drugs you have, the worse your punishment will be. If the police suspect you are a dealer, it is likely that they will charge you and you will go to jail. You may go to jail for up to 7 years for possession of cocaine, but if you are a supplier, you face life in jail.

How do you know if your loved one is using crack?

If your loved one is using crack cocaine, they will try to keep it a secret from you. Some of the signs of crack addiction include sneaking off to be alone at parties, missing money, and a change in mood to be tense and irritable. You can read more about the signs of withdrawal, here.

When should I have a crack addict intervention for a loved one?

As soon as you are worried that your loved one is suffering from a crack addiction, you should urge them to seek help. They can contact the Help4Addiction team for a consultation, or they can see our drug addiction and rehab pages for further information.

How big a problem is crack addiction, London?

Crack cocaine in London is controlled by drug gangs. Although it is a massive problem throughout England, crack cocaine use in London seems to be falling slightly when compared to other areas. A 2019 government report detailed that crack use had risen 4.4% overall around the country.

How long does it take for crack to leave your system?

Crack cocaine is visible in a toxicology report for a few days after use. In your blood and spit, it will be visible for 48 hours. It will remain present in your bladder for four days after use, but it stays in your hair for longest. If you use crack cocaine, it could be detected in your hair for up to three months.

Does Crack addiction make you look different?

All of these will affect your appearance negatively over time.All drugs will affect your appearance. How much it does so, depends on how long you were an addict for. Crack cocaine can affect the septum of your nose, can give you lesions around the nose and mouth, gives you extreme dry eyes which can be red, and makes you grind your teeth together. All of these will affect your appearance negatively over time.

What makes crack cocaine highly addictive?

Crack is a type of cocaine that is designed to hit the pleasure centres of the brain. The user feels this as a euphoric high that, once gone, leaves them with an overwhelming depression. One thing that takes the depression away instantly is another euphoric high… and so on.

Where can I get help for crack addiction in the UK?

Here at Help 4 Addiction, we are able to put you in touch with the ability to choose a great detox clinic and crack cocaine rehab programme. To recover from your addiction to crack cocaine, call us today, on 0203 955 7700.

What are the stages of recovering from crack addiction?

 You will need to detox from crack cocaine first. Detox means not taking any crack, ever again. It involves starting to ‘come clean’ of the chemicals. Once your brain has gotten through the first few days and the worst of the detox symptoms have passed, you will be moved on to a rehab clinic. Here, you will go through therapies designed to help you get over your addiction. The final stage will be the aftercare stage, wherein you emerge from rehab and attempt to go back to your life.

What happens when you are a crack addict?

 Those who are addicted to crack will go through the cycle of addiction repeatedly. This includes a heightened sense of anxiety because you have no drugs left, followed by a panicked rush to find more money or drugs. This culminates in you scoring another hit, then having the high from that. The high of crack cocaine is quickly followed by a depressive episode known as the ‘crash’. Once this hits, most crack cocaine addicts will do everything they can to score another hit.

Author

Nick Conn

Nicholas Conn is a leading industry addiction expert who runs the UK’s largest addiction advisory service and is regularly featured in the national press, radio and TV. He has been clean himself since 2009 and has worked in the Addiction and Rehab Industry for over a decade. Nick is dedicated to helping others recover and get treatment for drug and alcohol abuse. In 2013, he released a book ‘The Thin White’ line that is available on Amazon.

Doctor’s View

The coca plant grows in the Andes in Bolivia, Columbia and Peru. Some natives chew the leaves to give them stamina.

Basuco is a paste made from the leaves by pulverising them with methyl alcohol and kerosene. It is smokeable, giving it quick access to the bloodstream in the lungs and so gets ferried onwards to the brain.

Further purification produces crystals (rocks) that produce a crackling sound when heated. ‘Crack’ cocaine (freebase) vapour is inhaled through special bowled pipes. It leads to a rapid euphoria. 

Access to the bloodstream occurs within 15 seconds but the ‘high’ lasts for only 10 minutes, leaving an urge to repeat the experience. Now!

Symptoms and signs of crack addiction are the same as those in addiction to powdered cocaine. But in CAPITAL LETTERS.

Increased alertness, energy and cravings, and a fast heart beat go with dilated pupils and a decreased appetite. Anxiety, over-confidence, irritability, paranoia and talkativeness come along for the ride. There is heightened sensory perception to sight, sound and touch.

As Ali G asked the Drug Tsar, “But what are the bad effects?”.

The alter-ego of Ali G is the comedian Sasha Baron-Cohen whose brother is a consultant neurologist. Professionally, he is only too familiar with the bad effects.

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr Robert Lefever

Dr. Robert Lefever is a world leading addictions specialist. He is the foremost expert for addiction treatment. He has personally been in recovery from all substances since the 12th October 1984.

He created the first rehab in the UK to look at all addiction in 1986. Dr. Robert Lefever wrote with Professor Geoffrey Stephenson the masters degree course in addiction psychology at London South Bank University, this was the first of its kind and one of the most highly regarded courses that a therapist can do today.

Robert is also a TED speaker, author, composer and still remains an addiction treatment counsellor.
Last Medically Reviewed On: 6/23/2021
Due to be Reviewed On: 6/23/2023

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