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Cocaine Withdrawal
Back to the document's frontpageCocaine withdrawal in addicted users begins within minutes of the last dosage, and when cessation of use is attempted, cocaine withdrawal symptoms may continue for months.
It can be difficult to overcome cravings and depression
The symptoms of withdrawal are depression, irritability, anxiety and even aggression. Because cocaine causes more dopamine to remain active in the brain, the central nervous system (which always seeks to restore equilibrium) reduces the quantity of receptors that activate this dopamine. When cocaine use is stopped, there is a drastic reduction in the level of available receptors, and as such the existing dopamine is unable to stimulate sensations of pleasure. When cocaine use is stopped, there is a period of withdrawal during which the body gradually normalizes to a more appropriate level of dopaminergic activity. During this period the addict will feel very low, anxious and irritable, and feel intense cravings for cocaine. It can be very difficult to overcome the cravings and depression of withdrawal without professional help.
