Insomnia and cocaine use have a complicated relationship. Cocaine is known to have stimulant-like effects on the body, which can increase alertness and prevent sleepiness. This makes it an attractive option for people looking to stay up late or stay awake during the day. However, regular use of cocaine can lead to insomnia in the long run due to changes in the brain. Chronic cocaine users may experience disrupted sleep patterns, difficulty falling and staying asleep, and increased wakefulness during the night.
If you or a loved one is dealing with cocaine use and insomnia, call Vertava Health at 844.470.0410. Our cocaine addiction treatment can help. When it comes to insomnia and cocaine use, we have addiction specialists who can help create individualized treatment plans to address both issues and get you back on track.
Insomnia and Cocaine Use
Sleep disruption is common in people who struggle with cocaine use. Some of the most frequently reported sleep problems with cocaine addiction are:
- Sleep deficits
- Declines in sleep quality and quantity
- Lack of awareness of sleep problems
- Impairments in learning and attention
The truth is that cocaine-induced insomnia is more than just a sleep problem; it can actually contribute to relapse. As a result of relapse, a person may start a vicious cycle of using cocaine to try to feel normal.
Cocaine use can also lead to cognitive deficits involving sleep patterns, and even though people don’t realize it, they become addicted and use more of the drug to try to get back on a normal sleep schedule.
What Is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a naturally-occurring derivative of the coca plant. It’s a water-soluble white powder that can be snorted, inhaled, smoked, or injected into the veins. Cocaine belongs to a drug class known as CNS stimulants and is used for the feeling of euphoria and an increase in energy it produces.
The effects of snorted cocaine take a few minutes to be fully active, then wear off after 15 to 30 minutes. Smoked or injected cocaine kicks in almost instantly but wears off faster than when the drug is snorted.
In some cases, the high from cocaine will last up to an hour, but for the most part, cocaine produces a short-term euphoria characterized by intense bursts of energy. The psychological effects of cocaine don’t always wear off as rapidly as the initial high, and it’s common for the drug to disrupt sleep patterns.
What Are the Dangers Of Cocaine-Induced Insomnia?
Sleep is vital to our physical and mental health. Getting the right amount of sleep contributes to healing and repairing the heart, as well as the blood vessels, and allowing the brain to rest.
Cocaine may impair the brain’s ability to gauge its sleep needs. Sleep deficiency is a common contributor to:
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- High blood pressure
Not only does insomnia lead to mental and physical problems, but it can also contribute to the likelihood of relapse.
Withdrawal Symptoms Of Cocaine
When a person suffering from cocaine addiction stops using the drug, they may first experience a crash followed by withdrawal. Depending on the amount of cocaine they use, withdrawal can last anywhere from one to three weeks. Certain withdrawal symptoms, like depression, can last for months after a person stops using cocaine.
Certain cocaine withdrawal symptoms may be exacerbated by insomnia, including:
- Agitation
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Lack of pleasure
- Restlessness
- General discomfort
- Vivid and unpleasant dreams
- Fear and anxiety
- Paranoia
- Suicidal thoughts
Cocaine does more than disrupt sleep patterns. It can also lead to long-term health issues, as well as the potential for overdose and death. That is why professional treatment is so essential.
Discover Cocaine Addiction Treatment at Vertava Health
Overcoming cocaine use and insomnia is possible. Contact Vertava Health today at 844.470.0410 to learn more about cocaine addiction and treatment options. We can help you attain the life you deserve.
