The drug can also cause respiratory failure, which means the body doesn’t get the amount of oxygen it needs. Depending on the severity of the overdose, the long-term effects can range from minimal to life-threatening. A minor cocaine overdose may cause lightheadedness, agitation and sweating for 10 to 20 minutes. A severe cocaine overdose can last for an hour or longer and cause seizures, a heart attack or a stroke. In addition to seizures, crack overdose can also lead to extreme body temperature fluctuations. The intense stimulation of crack cocaine can cause the body’s temperature regulation system to malfunction, leading to dangerous spikes in body temperature.
Psychological Consequences of Overdosing on Crack
Sedatives are frequently used for psychological calming and de-escalation of elevated vital signs. Injections and IV therapy are common as are bath salts abuse and addiction cooling methods for the body. Word of mouth from other users and dealers is the only ‚authoritative‘ information about ‚appropriate‘ use.
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- Crack has a variety of immediate side effects that one could encounter.
- The best way to prevent crack overdose is to stop using the drug altogether.
- This means people are more likely to develop a substance use disorder than they would with conventional cocaine.
- Long-term use increases the risk of heart attack, blood pressure fluctuations, starvation, infertility, and sudden death.
The causes of crack overdose can be separated into the effects of crack on the body and the habits of the person smoking crack. Before being trafficked into other nations, especially the United States, it is frequently produced in Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru. It’s typically crushed into tiny rocks and gets its name from the way smoking crack crackles due to the heat. Crack has the potential to be incredibly dangerous due to additives and cutting agents. Powder cocaine is also addictive and is consumed by snorting it through a straw or other means.
Additional Common Questions
In severe cases, a cocaine overdose can lead to serious complications such as stroke, heart attack, coma, and even death. If you suspect someone is experiencing a crack overdose, taking immediate action is crucial. Begin by calling emergency services or seeking medical assistance. While waiting for help to arrive, ensure the person’s safety by keeping them calm and in a safe environment. If they are unconscious and not breathing, performing CPR can be life-saving.
Discontinued use, treatment and a relapse prevention plan are the best ways to avoid overdose. There is evidence that cocaine users with unresolved trauma histories are at risk for severe, chronic use and consequently overdose. The desire for more frequent use and greater amounts increases quickly, resulting in binge use.
The constriction of blood vessels can result in heart attacks and strokes, which can be life-threatening. The elevated heart rate and blood pressure put a tremendous strain on the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular complications. A number of risk factors 9 liquor storage ideas for small spaces are involved when it comes to abusing crack cocaine. Across Ohio, many residents may experience substance use disorder or crack cocaine addiction, which increases the risk of fatal overdose. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals.
A person can overdose their first time trying crack cocaine, especially if they are trying to “keep up” with a more experienced user. The VCU Medical Center Emergency Department trains staff and students to reverse opioid overdose, and makes naloxone available for employees, students, and patients. During an overdose, a person’s breathing can be dangerously slowed or stopped, causing brain damage or death. It’s important to recognize the signs and act fast, even before emergency workers arrive. A variety of medications can be administered to treat anxiety, agitation, nausea, seizure or blood pressure problems. Other prescription drugs may reduce the effects of heart, brain or kidney complications.
Certain signs and symptoms are frequently experienced during a crack overdose and are simple to recognize with enough education. Even at very modest dosages and in first-time users, a crack overdose can still occur, making the use of crack harmful at any dosage. The risk of overdose becomes substantial when mixing crack with other substances like alcohol, opiates, or other prescription drugs.
This hyperthermia can result in organ damage, particularly to the liver and kidneys, and can even be fatal if not promptly treated. It is crucial to note that crack cocaine overdose is not limited to experienced users. Even first-time or occasional users can be at risk if they take a high dose or unknowingly consume a potent batch of crack. Street drugs like crack are often cut or adulterated with other substances to increase profits.
This heightened state of alertness can lead to paranoid thoughts and beliefs, making the individual feel constantly threatened and on edge. A person may also overdose on crack cocaine, especially if they mix it with alcohol or heroin. Dr. Tetrault explains that cocaine is sometimes adulterated with other drugs, such as amphetamines or synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which can make it particularly dangerous.
The sooner you do so, the more likely it will be that the individual will receive the help they need and survive the overdose. In addition, you must also protect yourself and allow professionals to help your loved one, overdosing on crack can allow someone to act irrationally and violently. Once goodbye letter to alcohol template download printable pdf your loved one is in the hands of medical professionals, they can start to heal from the symptoms caused by their overdose. Get Help Today Find a treatment center to help you with your crack addiction. Its ingredients are unknown to the user, as is their quantity and potential for toxicity.