What’s the Difference Between Crack and Cocaine?

The difference between crack and cocaine is the way it is ingested through your bloodstream. Cocaine comes in different variations of the same substance. Although they come in different forms, there is a very evident distinction between the two. So, what’s the difference between crack and cocaine? These vital substance discrepancies have adverse effects on your body, affecting physical and mental dependency in varying ways. Here’s how to identify the two substances and how to tell the difference between them.

What is Cocaine?

Cocaine is derived from the coca plant from South Africa. It is a potent stimulant that comes naturally in a powder or salt-like hydrochloride form. It can be snorted, smoked, or topically applied to feel its numbing effects.

What is Crack?

Crack is the “rock” form of cocaine that contains the compound cocaine, except mixed with other chemicals to produce its unique effects. These chemicals primarily consist of baking powder and water. Combining these properties is what gives it its more solid rock-like appearance. The mixed product of crack has a profound effect on risk and potency, which will be discussed later on.

What’s the Difference Between Crack and Cocaine?

Cocaine is classified as a stimulant. It’s known to be an extremely potent drug purely extracted directly from the leaves of the Coca plant native to South American countries, such as Peru. Crack, on the other hand, is a hybrid of different compounds that contain cocaine in it. One of the factors that makes crack so dangerous is the uncertain levels of cocaine that are in the crack. Those levels vary each time and are never the same. Even the stimulant’s purest form of cocaine has a varying potency, making it no less hazardous to your health.

What Are the Symptoms of Crack and Cocaine Addiction?

Though the onset of effects and addiction are very different, the difference between crack and cocaine addiction symptoms are very similar. This varies by individual, but due to the quicker and “higher” onset of crack, it can prove to be more addictive. Couple this with shorter-lasting effects and you have an even higher risk of becoming physically and/or mentally dependent upon these substances.

Intense Withdrawal

Like many addictive substances, crack and cocaine have heavily addicting properties. The difference between cocaine and crack is crack can even be more addicting and this cost more money. The two couples together can be a lethal combination. Speak with your doctor if you experience physical or mental withdrawal symptoms associated with cessation of use.

Inability to Function

If you struggle to carry out daily duties or go about daily life without cocaine or crack use, see a doctor immediately. Crack and cocaine abuse are both serious dependencies that require medical attention. The good news is you are not alone in your struggles.

Uncontrollable Spending

One common ground that shows little difference between cocaine and crack abusers is the need to continually fuel your habit.  If you find yourself broke or looking for more money to feed your cocaine or crack habit, it’s imminent that you seek therapy now. This means you’ve put the importance of cocaine and/or crack above your financial means to survive. This often triggers a downward spiral into a lethal habit that could claim your life.

Treatment Options for Crack and Cocaine Addiction

Professional treatment at a rehab facility is essential for those addicted to substances such as  crack and cocaine. At Little Creek Lodge in Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania, we provide the following treatment programs, addiction therapy, and other resources for those struggling with dependency and addiction to drugs.

Detoxification Programs

The first great step you can make towards sobriety and adding years back to your life is enrolling in a detox program, known as medicated-assisted treatment (MAT). Detox from both forms cannot be self-attempted and require medical aid. Speak to a compassionate Little Creek Recovery receptionist to get the help you deserve.

Interventions

If you feel an addiction has become dangerous enough to the abuser, a professionally-guided intervention may be necessary. This option is often the last resort to prevent further harm that could have fatal outcomes. There are plenty of intervention options for the family to consider if a loved one needs a loving wake-up call.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) involves several beneficial one-on-one sessions that identify the thought structures that fuel your addiction. A therapist can reverse these damaging thought patterns by identifying and training you to alter your way of thinking. This is not a placebo effect. This is a potential game-changing scientifically-proven process that has changed numerous lives. Don’t hesitate to reach out if your thoughts are the biggest detriment to your sobriety.

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy is the most personal and personable therapy to help you chart a recovery course. With the anchor of your therapist’s guidance, all of your sobriety goals are achievable. Opening up to your therapist equips him with the tools he needs to map out and execute your individualized path to recovery.

Your Road to Recovery Begins Now

Little Creek Recovery understands the mental and physical anguish of your addiction struggles. All you need to do is reach out and we will handle the rest. The most difficult part is taking that first step to receiving help. Most patients feel the burden being lifted simply by making the right choice in moments like these. We want you to know that you no longer have to feel alone in your struggles. We can help, call our admissions team today.