Cocaine dependence

Cocaine dependence
Cocaine dependence
Specialty	Psychiatry, clinical psychology

Cocaine dependence is a neurological disorder that is characterized by withdrawal symptoms upon cessation from cocaine use.^[1] It also often coincides with cocaine addiction which is a biopsychosocial disorder characterized by persistent use of cocaine and/or crack despite substantial harm and adverse consequences. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., abbreviated DSM-5), classifies problematic cocaine use as a stimulant use disorder.^[2] The International Classification of Diseases (11th rev., abbreviated ICD-11), includes "Cocaine dependence" as a classification (diagnosis) under "Disorders due to use of cocaine".^[3]

The use of cocaine creates euphoria and high amounts of energy. If taken in large doses, it is possible to cause mood swings, paranoia, insomnia, psychosis, high blood pressure, a fast heart rate, panic attacks, seizures that are extremely difficult to control, cognitive impairments and drastic changes in personality. Cocaine overdose may result in cardiovascular and brain damage, such as: status epilepticus, constricting blood vessels in the brain, causing strokes and constricting arteries in the heart; causing heart attacks.^[4]

The symptoms of cocaine withdrawal range from moderate to severe: dysphoria, depression, anxiety, decreased libido, psychological and physical weakness, pain, and compulsive cravings.

^ Pomara C, Cassano T, D'Errico S, Bello S, Romano AD, Riezzo I, Serviddio G (2012). "Data available on the extent of cocaine use and dependence: biochemistry, pharmacologic effects and global burden of disease of cocaine abusers". Current Medicinal Chemistry. 19 (33): 5647–57. doi:10.2174/092986712803988811. PMID 22856655.
^ Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association Publishing. 2013. p. 561. ISBN 978-089042-555-8.
^ "6C45 Disorders due to use of cocaine". ICD-11 - Mortality and Morbidity Statistics. Retrieved 20 November 2020.
^ Cocaine Use and Its Effects

[Pom2012-1] Pomara C, Cassano T, D'Errico S, Bello S, Romano AD, Riezzo I, Serviddio G (2012). "Data available on the extent of cocaine use and dependence: biochemistry, pharmacologic effects and global burden of disease of cocaine abusers". Current Medicinal Chemistry. 19 (33): 5647–57. doi:10.2174/092986712803988811. PMID 22856655.

[2] Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association Publishing. 2013. p. 561. ISBN 978-089042-555-8.

[3] "6C45 Disorders due to use of cocaine". ICD-11 - Mortality and Morbidity Statistics. Retrieved 20 November 2020.

[:2-4] Cocaine Use and Its Effects

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