Image: Freepik
Estimates show that, in 2022, over half a million people in the US used crack regularly, marking a record figure in the past 13 years. Alongside these figures, has also increased the number of people seeing their lives and health impacted by substance abuse disorder. Not only does crack cocaine impair physical and mental well-being – but it can also have an impact on family relationships, employability, and financial stability.
In this guide by Oasis Treatment Centers, we’ll look at everything you need to know about crack cocaine and the steps to take to make a full recovery from addiction. Let’s dive in.
Understanding Crack Cocaine
Crack cocaine is a potent stimulant derived from powdered cocaine using a simple conversion process. By mixing it with water, adding another substance, usually baking soda, and then heating it, this substance takes on the appearance of a “rock” crystal. When heated, fragments of this “rock” produce vapors that can be inhaled or smoked to produce a high.
In the system, crack cocaine works by flooding the brain with dopamine, a neurotransmitter related to pleasure and reward, leading to intense euphoria. However, this alteration significantly affects the brain’s chemistry, leading to potential long-term neurological and psychological effects.
How Long Does Crack Stay in Urine?
Crack is known to produce an immediate and extremely intense high, which is also very short lived and lasts, on average, around 15 minutes. This is one of the key reasons why this substance is very addictive.
However, even when the high begins to subside, the substance remains in the system much longer. This duration is determined by several factors, including
- Metabolism rate
- Frequency of use
- Body mass
- Hydration levels
- General health
Nonetheless, typically, crack can be detected in urine for 2-3 days after use.
Crack Cocaine Detection Systems
Beyond urine tests, crack cocaine can also be detected through several other tests, including the following ones:
- Blood tests: Generally detects crack within 48 hours of use.
- Saliva tests: Can find traces of crack from 24 to 48 hours after use.
- Hair follicle tests: Offers a longer detection window, finding crack use up to 90 days after the last dose.
The Effects of Crack Cocaine on Health
Of crack cocaine’s most attractive features is the immediate euphoria it delivers. However, this short-lived high can take a severe toll on an individual’s health. Some of the long-term effects of this drug include:
- Declining mental health and increased risk of anxiety, depression, and psychosis.
- Affected physical health, due to respiratory issues, cardiovascular stress, and neurological damage.
- It can lead to addiction, overdose, and death. This is particularly true because of the brief “rush” it causes: users tend to up their intake in the pursuit of a longer high, without realizing how much of this drug is already present and building-up in their bodies. This makes overdose and addiction highly likely.
Besides the impact on an individual’s health, this drug has also been seen to cause major strains on a person’s personal and professional life. Studies have even seen that crack cocaine users deal with more family problems than other substance users. Given the need for “topping up” the crack dose, users also run into financial troubles, impacted employability, and severe withdrawal symptoms.
Steps to Recovery and Support
At Oasis Treatment Centers in Orange County, we understand the challenges and impact of crack addiction. Our dedicated team is committed to providing the support and guidance needed for a sustained, long-lasting recovery. Take the first step towards reclaiming your life: contact us today or phone (949) 942-8477.
