How Long Does Cocaine Last?

For members of the LGBTQ+ community, it's not uncommon to encounter the party scene, and unfortunately, that sometimes means being around substances like cocaine. Whether there's personal experience with it or just curiosity about how it works, it's essential to have the facts. Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that can have serious effects on both physical and mental health. But how long do those effects really last? And what does that mean for individuals and their loved ones? For LGBTQ+ individuals, who may already face higher rates of substance abuse due to minority stress and other factors, understanding the risks and realities of cocaine use is important. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the effects of cocaine and how long they last, so informed decisions can be made and safely maintained.

How Long Does Cocaine Last In The System?

The duration of cocaine in the system depends on how it enters the bloodstream. There are several ways to take cocaine. How an individual ingests the substance will determine how quickly it acts and how long it lasts. The most common methods for taking cocaine include:

• Snorting
  People snort cocaine into the nose using any device at their disposal, but how long does cocaine last in their system? Snorting cocaine can get the substance in the bloodstream fast. The quicker a drug enters the bloodstream, the faster it will take effect in the body. For this reason, snorting cocaine or rubbing it on the gums will prolong how quickly the effects are felt. Effects of snorting usually occur within three to five minutes and last for up to 20 minutes. Since the results are short-lived, individuals snort several times in a single session to continue the feeling. This reaction is how a lot of the overdoses occur.

• Smoking
  Smoking sends cocaine from the lungs directly to the heart and then on to the brain. For some people, this method is slower. However, most users experience a high within ten seconds of the first puff. Effects usually last up to 20 minutes. Some individuals typically take multiple puffs in a single session.

• Intravenous Use
  The effects of cocaine are felt much quicker when injecting cocaine intravenously. Intravenous use of cocaine produces fast results. Average time for a person to feel the effects is five to ten seconds. They will continue on the high for up to 20 minutes. While intravenous use is highly effective, it is also highly risky for several reasons, particularly because of the dangers associated with sharing needles.

• Oral Ingestion
  Oral ingestion takes some patience from the user. However, it delivers a more intense high for an extended period. It takes about 30 minutes for it to become active. Once the effects set in, the individual may enjoy the high for up to 90 minutes. It is not uncommon to overdose after the person swallows. The reason for this is that it takes more significant amounts to get high than other methods.

How Long Does A Cocaine High Last?

A cocaine high is relatively brief compared to other drugs as it has a short half-life. However, some factors that affect the duration of a cocaine high include:

• The way it is taken
• The amount taken
• Whether cocaine is mixed with other drugs

But how long does a cocaine high last? The cocaine high is quite short-lived and varies from person to person. In most cases, the initial high of cocaine peaks after 15 to 30 minutes. This short-lived high will often cause the individual to chase the high by taking dose after dose. In this way, they can attempt to prolong the desired experience. The individual may typically experience lingering effects of cocaine and adverse side effects a few days after taking it. This is known as a comedown, which can leave the person feeling tired, anxious, and irritable. These side effects may last for a few days as the cocaine clears the system. If cocaine is injected, the high usually arises, peaks, and wears off in a similar length of time as crack.

The Long-term Effects Of Cocaine Use

Long-term use of cocaine can result in a variety of health conditions that go beyond the immediate emotional and physiological effects experienced during use. Chronic users may face cardiovascular conditions such as an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes due to the drug’s ability to elevate blood pressure and harden arteries. 

Neurologically, the sustained use of cocaine can result in changes in the brain’s structure and function, impacting areas responsible for decision-making, memory, and regulating emotions. Understanding these risks is important not just for those battling addiction but also for their families and communities striving to support them.

Besides the physical effects, cocaine use can deeply affect an individual’s mental health and social well-being. It can increase the risk and severity of mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression and greatly impair social relationships and occupational stability. 

Treatment Options For Cocaine Addiction

Various treatment options are available for people tackling cocaine addiction, each tailored to meet the unique needs of the individual. These programs usually combine therapy sessions, both individual and group, with medical care to address both the physical and psychological aspects of the addiction. Furthermore, outpatient therapy options are available for those who require a more flexible schedule, allowing the individuals to continue with their daily responsibilities while still receiving the support and treatment necessary for recovery.

Support groups and aftercare programs play an important role in the long-term success of overcoming cocaine addiction. These groups offer a platform for sharing experiences and difficulties in the critical time immediately following a rehab program. Aftercare services, including ongoing therapy, 12-step program and support group meetings, help individuals maintain their sobriety and manage coping mechanisms over time. It’s important to remember that recovery is a continuous journey, and each step in the process is a step toward long-term sobriety. 

A residential drug rehab program is required in order to be able to overcome the strong cravings of a cocaine habit. The treatment program teaches the individual how to respond differently to cravings and triggers. Only with these new coping techniques, and the support of the rehab team, can someone beat a coke habit.

After detox, it is time to enroll in a comprehensive program. Rehabs are highly structured and offer many classes, therapy sessions, and activities. The more engaged a person is in the treatment process, the better they will do over the long term.

Reach Out To Pride Detox Today

Cocaine addiction, with its great impact on physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life, can seem like an insurmountable obstacle. However, by understanding the risks, LGBTQ+ individuals and their loved ones can better appreciate the critical need for professional support and intervention.

At Pride Detox, our programs embody a sanctuary of hope and transformation for those struggling with cocaine addiction. Our cocaine rehab provides empathetic, comprehensive care tailored to each participant’s unique struggles and strengths. Our program is carefully designed to provide detox, and a holistic and empathetic approach to recovery. By integrating personalized treatment plans with evidence-based therapies, life skills training, and continuous support, Pride Detox empowers participants to reclaim their lives step by step. If you or your LGBTQ+ loved one is struggling with cocaine addiction, call our team of experts today at 1-562-525-5121 or use our online contact form.