Why You Feel Strange After Doing Coke

Unveiling the strange aftermath of doing coke: from brain chemistry disruptions to physical consequences. Understand the effects now!

May 5, 2024

Effects of Cocaine Use

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug that can have both short-term and long-term effects on the body and mind. Understanding these effects is essential for raising awareness about the potential risks and consequences associated with cocaine use.

Short-Term Effects of Cocaine

The short-term effects of cocaine use can vary depending on factors such as the dosage, purity of the drug, and individual tolerance levels. Some common short-term effects include:

Increased energy and alertness
Decreased appetite
Hypersensitivity to sight, sound, and touch
Elevated heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and breathing.

These immediate effects contribute to the intense and pleasurable sensations that individuals may experience after using cocaine. However, it's important to note that these effects are temporary and can be followed by negative consequences.

Long-Term Effects of Cocaine

Prolonged use of cocaine can lead to a range of long-term effects, particularly on the brain. One of the key impacts is on the brain's reward system. Cocaine interferes with the natural process of the reward system, resulting in a buildup of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This buildup can make the drug seem even more desirable, potentially leading to addiction.

Additionally, repeated cocaine use can cause the stress receptors in the brain to become more sensitive. This can lead to an increase in feelings of dissatisfaction and negative moods when not using the substance. Over time, this can contribute to a cycle of dependence and cravings for the drug.

Furthermore, long-term cocaine use can have detrimental effects on cognitive function. It can impair attention, memory, decision-making, and motor skills. These impairments can have a significant impact on an individual's daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

It is important to note that the effects of cocaine use can vary from person to person, and the risks associated with its use are not limited to the short-term or long-term effects alone. Understanding these effects is crucial for promoting awareness, prevention, and providing support to those affected by cocaine addiction.

Impact on Brain Chemistry

The use of cocaine has a profound impact on brain chemistry, leading to various effects on the individual's mental and physical well-being. Two key aspects to consider are the influence of cocaine on dopamine levels and its disruption of neurotransmitter function.

Dopamine and Cocaine Use

Cocaine use directly affects dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. When cocaine enters the brain, it blocks the reuptake of dopamine, leading to an accumulation of this neurotransmitter in the synaptic space. This surge of dopamine results in the intense euphoria commonly experienced by individuals using cocaine.

However, chronic cocaine exposure can lead to long-lasting changes in brain chemistry. The accumulation of a protein called ΔFosB in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a brain region involved in reward processing, has been associated with addiction-like behaviors, increased sensitivity to cocaine, and drug cravings. Additionally, chronic cocaine exposure causes physical changes in nerve cell structure in the NAc, including the sprouting of new dendrites. These changes may enhance the influence of other brain regions and contribute to the long-lasting behavioral changes associated with addiction.

Neurotransmitter Disruption

In addition to the effects on dopamine, cocaine use disrupts the normal functioning of neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that facilitate communication between neurons. Cocaine can interfere with the transporters responsible for recycling neurotransmitters or cause neurons to release abnormally large amounts of natural neurotransmitters. These disruptions can lead to abnormal messages being sent through the neural network.

Moreover, certain drugs, including cocaine, can also disrupt the brain stem, which is responsible for vital functions like heart rate, breathing, and sleep. This disruption can help explain why overdoses can lead to depressed breathing and, in severe cases, death [4].

The impact of cocaine on brain chemistry is complex and multifaceted. Understanding these effects is crucial for comprehending the mechanisms behind the strange feelings experienced after using cocaine. By altering dopamine levels and interfering with neurotransmitter function, cocaine exerts significant effects on the brain, contributing to both the intense pleasure and the potential long-term consequences associated with its use.

Psychological Effects

The psychological effects of cocaine use can be profound and often contribute to the strange feelings experienced after consuming the drug. These effects can manifest in various ways, including paranoia, agitation, and psychiatric symptoms.

Paranoia and Agitation

Paranoia is a common psychological effect experienced by individuals using cocaine. Research suggests that paranoia occurs in 68% to 84% of patients using cocaine. The drug can induce intense feelings of suspicion, fear, and anxiety. Users may become excessively vigilant, believing that others are out to harm them or that they are being watched or followed.

Agitation is another psychological effect that can occur after cocaine use. Users may exhibit restlessness, irritability, and an inability to relax. These feelings of agitation can contribute to a sense of unease and discomfort.

Psychiatric Symptoms

Cocaine use can also lead to the development of various psychiatric symptoms. The drug can produce a spectrum of psychiatric symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, violence, and suicidal and homicidal thinking [5]. These symptoms can be primary to the drug's effect or secondary to exacerbation of pre-existing psychiatric disorders.

Research suggests that as many as 55% of patients with cocaine-induced psychiatric symptoms may exhibit cocaine-related violent behaviors. Homicide has been associated with cocaine use in as many as 31% of homicide victims, and cocaine has been found to be present in as high as 18% to 22% of suicide cases. The impact of these psychiatric symptoms can be severe and have significant consequences for both individuals using cocaine and those around them.

It is important to note that the psychological effects of cocaine can vary from person to person and may be influenced by factors such as the dose consumed, frequency of use, and individual susceptibility. Seeking professional help is crucial for individuals experiencing these psychological effects or struggling with addiction to cocaine.

Physical Consequences

The physical consequences of cocaine use can have a significant impact on the body. From cardiovascular effects to brain damage and cognitive impairment, the use of cocaine can lead to serious health complications.

Cardiovascular Effects

Cocaine use is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, particularly in younger individuals. One of the reasons for this is that cocaine has the ability to constrict blood vessels, increase blood pressure, and reduce blood flow to the brain, which can pose a risk of brain damage. These effects can increase the likelihood of experiencing a stroke, heart attack, or other cardiovascular emergencies.

The cardiovascular effects of cocaine can vary depending on the individual and the dose used. Some common cardiovascular effects include:

Increased heart rate
Elevated blood pressure
Irregular heart rhythm
Chest pain
Vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels)

It is important to note that these effects can be both acute and long-term, meaning they can occur immediately after cocaine use or develop over time with chronic abuse. Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial if any cardiovascular symptoms arise after cocaine use.

Brain Damage and Cognitive Impairment

Chronic cocaine abuse can have detrimental effects on the brain, leading to long-term damage and cognitive impairments. The brain is particularly vulnerable to the effects of cocaine due to its impact on neurotransmitters and neuronal function [7].

Prolonged cocaine use can result in reduced glucose metabolism in various brain regions, indicating neuronal dysfunction or death. This can contribute to long-term cardiovascular and brain damage. Moreover, chronic cocaine abuse can impair cognitive functions, such as attention, memory, decision-making, and motor skills.

The long-term impact on the brain and cognition can be significant, and individuals who engage in chronic cocaine abuse may experience difficulties in various aspects of their daily lives. It is important to seek professional help and treatment to address these challenges.

Understanding the physical consequences of cocaine use is crucial in recognizing the potential dangers associated with this drug. The cardiovascular effects and brain damage resulting from cocaine use highlight the importance of seeking appropriate treatment and support to mitigate the risks and promote overall health and well-being.

Cocaine Withdrawal and Comedown

When the effects of cocaine wear off, individuals may experience a range of symptoms known as cocaine withdrawal and comedown. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, and they often contribute to the uncomfortable and strange feelings individuals may experience after using cocaine.

Symptoms of Cocaine Withdrawal

Cocaine withdrawal can be a challenging experience both physically and psychologically. Some of the common symptoms of cocaine withdrawal include:

Intense comedown symptoms
Decreased cravings
Inability to concentrate
Emotional swings
Lethargy
Intermittent craving associated with addiction
Post-acute withdrawal symptoms lasting for weeks or months (River Oaks Treatment)

These symptoms can vary from person to person and may be influenced by factors such as the duration and intensity of cocaine use. It's important to note that individuals may require professional support and guidance during the withdrawal process to manage these symptoms effectively.

Cocaine Comedown Effects

As the effects of cocaine wear off, individuals may experience a cocaine comedown. This phase involves intense effects that are somewhat opposite to the euphoric sensations experienced during cocaine use. Some of the common effects of a cocaine comedown include:

Irritability
Fatigue
Agitation
Anxiety
Increased appetite (River Oaks Treatment)

These effects can contribute to the strange and uncomfortable feelings individuals may experience after using cocaine. It's important to remember that cocaine comedown effects are temporary and will gradually subside as the body readjusts to its normal state. Seeking support from professionals can help individuals navigate this phase and manage any discomfort experienced.

The use of cocaine can have significant impacts on both the physical and psychological well-being of individuals. Long-term cocaine use can lead to changes in brain chemistry, cardiovascular risks, and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and paranoia [8]. It is crucial for individuals struggling with cocaine use to seek professional help for treatment and support in order to address these challenges and regain control of their lives.

Cocaine Abuse Risks

Cocaine abuse can have severe consequences on both mental and physical health. Prolonged and excessive use of cocaine can lead to various risks and complications. Two significant risks associated with cocaine abuse are psychosis and schizophrenia, as well as gray matter loss and memory issues.

Psychosis and Schizophrenia

Bingeing on cocaine, particularly in powdered or freebase form, may increase the risk of triggering psychosis or schizophrenia in individuals with a predisposition. Cocaine has the ability to elevate stress hormones like cortisol in the brain, which can lead to permanent blood pressure increase and cardiovascular damage. Additionally, the use of cocaine can contribute to anxiety, panic disorders, aggression, or violence [7].

Gray Matter Loss and Memory Issues

Chronic cocaine abuse can result in reduced glucose metabolism in various brain regions, indicating neuronal dysfunction or death. This can contribute to long-term cardiovascular and brain damage. Individuals with a history of cocaine abuse may experience accelerated loss of gray matter in the brain, which can lead to memory problems, cognitive changes, and even dementia. Studies have shown that cocaine-dependent individuals may lose gray matter at twice the rate of those without substance abuse issues [7].

Research suggests that cocaine abuse may induce brain cells to undergo autophagy, a process where cells consume themselves internally. This phenomenon has been observed in mice exposed to cocaine, including offspring whose mothers were given cocaine during pregnancy. These effects highlight the potential long-term consequences of cocaine abuse on brain health.

It is important to acknowledge the risks associated with cocaine abuse and seek appropriate help and treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with cocaine addiction, it is crucial to reach out to addiction counselors or healthcare professionals who can provide guidance, support, and resources for recovery.