Cocaine Detox: Effective Addiction Treatment
Cocaine affects every aspect of your life when you depend on it. Whether you started using it as a party drug, to keep up at work, or to feel better when you were down, it can quickly take over your life. Quitting might seem impossible, and if you've tried before, you know the withdrawal symptoms are tough to manage. But help is available—you don't have to do it on your own.
Detoxing from cocaine isn't just about quitting use. It's about making sure you're stable, both physically and mentally, so you can be confident stepping forward into recovery. Whether it's your first time going through cocaine detox or you're need support after a relapse, our team is here to help. With 24/7 availability and a focus on dignity, respect, and clinical excellence, we ensure that you’re never alone on this path.
What is cocaine detox?
Cocaine detox is the first step in overcoming cocaine addiction. It involves clearing the drug from your system while managing the withdrawal symptoms that arise when you stop using cocaine. Detoxification, or “detox,” is more than just stopping drug use. The goals of cocaine detox include:
- Physical stabilization: Help your body recover from the effects of cocaine use.
- Manage withdrawal symptoms: Reduce physical and emotional discomfort during withdrawal.
- Prepare for ongoing treatment: Set the stage for therapy and behavioral interventions.
The importance of medically supervised detox
While cocaine doesn't usually cause life-threatening physical symptoms, it's still extremely challenging. After stopping long-term and/or heavy use, cravings and depression can be intense. Some people experience suicidal thoughts during cocaine detox as a result of severe depression. Trying to handle the intense emotional symptoms without the right support can also increase your risk of relapse. Relapsing during detox has a higher chance of overdose.
Medically supervised detox at Sheridan Grove Recovery gives you 24/7 access to licensed medical professionals. They can help you manage your symptoms and provide support throughout the detox process. They'll also monitor your vital signs, provide medications to ease withdrawals (when appropriate), and offer emotional support through therapy and counseling.
Cocaine detox timeline
While your exact timeline can vary, there are common phases of withdrawal during detox:
1. First 24–72 hours
- Cravings, anxiety, and mood swings are common.
- Many people start feeling depressed or have low energy.
- Flu-like symptoms are also typical.
2. Weeks one to two
- Emotional and physical symptoms often peak during this phase.
- Restlessness, sleep disturbances, and appetite changes are common.
- Depression can become severe, sometimes causing suicidal ideation.
- Cravings remain an issue, even though tolerance has dropped.
3. Weeks two to four
- Emotional instability, like mood swings and depression, stick around.
- Cravings can still be present, though they may become easier to manage.
- Brain chemistry changes significantly since it no longer relies on cocaine.
4. Months two to six (Post-acute withdrawal symptoms)
- Not everyone experiences PAWS.
- Physical symptoms are usually over.
- Occasional mood swings, “brain fog,” and residual cravings may occur.
- Sleep issues, like insomnia, remain an issue for many.
No matter how long your withdrawal symptoms last, the team at Sheridan Grove is ready to help. Our licensed professionals provide 24/7 monitoring, nutritional counseling, and the emotional and medical support you need.
Cocaine withdrawal symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms are physically and emotionally challenging. They're not just hard on your body, they make it hard to live your life and avoid relapse—especially without professional support.
Common physical symptoms
- Fatigue and exhaustion
- Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or vivid dreams
- Changes in appetite (increased or decreased)
- Headaches and muscle aches
Psychological symptoms of withdrawal
- Depression and low mood
- Suicidal thoughts
- Anxiety, agitation, and restlessness
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Intense cravings for cocaine
Managing cravings during detox
Intense cravings will be some of the most challenging experiences during cocaine withdrawal. The good news is that you're not the first person to experience them, and professional treatment can offer you proven support strategies to make them tolerable.
- Medications: While there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for cocaine addiction, certain medications help some people manage withdrawal symptoms, which can make easier to focus on managing cravings.
- Behavioral strategies: Learning to identify triggers and develop coping mechanisms is key to overcoming cravings. Starting cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) during detox can help develop skills to manage triggers and cravings.
- Support groups: Connecting with others who have gone through or are going through similar struggles can be immensely helpful. Groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and SMART Recovery provide a supportive community and tools for maintaining sobriety.
- Lifestyle changes: Making positive changes in your daily life, such as incorporating regular exercise, eating well, and finding healthy outlets for stress relief, can greatly improve your chances of success in recovery.
Treatment options for cocaine addiction
Cocaine detox programs give people the space, tools, and support they need to finally break free from cocaine use. There are several options for cocaine detox, including:
Inpatient detox programs
May be right for people with a heavy use history or have experienced multiple relapses.
- Residential setting: A structured environment where you can focus entirely on recovery.
- 24/7 supervision: Continuous care for both physical and emotional needs.
- Daily structure: Activities and therapy sessions to promote stability and focus.
Outpatient detox programs
May be right for people with less frequent cocaine use who have a strong support system.
- Flexibility: Allows you to maintain work, school, or family commitments.
- Scheduled check-ins: Regular oversight and support from professionals.
- Community support: Access to group therapy and educational resources.
Medical detox for cocaine
May be right for those with co-occurring mental health conditions or polysubstance use.
- Medical supervision: Monitored withdrawal to ensure safety and comfort.
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Prescription medication to alleviate symptoms and reduce cravings.
- Multidisciplinary approach: Comprehensive care from a team of doctors, therapists, and support staff.
Starting cocaine detox near Denver, CO, is simple—just contact Sheridan Grove Recovery.
- Talk with an admissions counselor: See what kind of support you need to move forward.
- Verify your insurance: We accept Medicaid and commercial plans.
- Start treatment: Check in any time day or night, 365 days a year.
Evidence-based therapies for cocaine addiction
Effective treatment for cocaine addiction goes beyond detox. Therapy and counseling are essential for addressing the root causes of addiction and building a foundation for lasting recovery.
Behavioral therapies
You have to recognize and change your behaviors in order to recovery to last. Some evidence-based talk therapy (psychotherapy) methods we use at Sheridan Grove include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy: Identify and change negative thought patterns.
- Motivational interviewing (MI): Strengthen your commitment to recovery.
- Acceptance and commitment therapy: Learn to accept and manage difficult emotions.
- Dialectical behavior therapy: Tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships.
Dual diagnosis treatment
Many people struggling with cocaine addiction also have co-occurring mental health conditions, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. We offer co-occurring mental health treatment to address both the addiction and underlying mental health issues.
Relapse Prevention and Aftercare
Recovery doesn’t end after detox or rehab—it’s an ongoing journey. The Sheridan Grove team works with every client we support to build a relapse prevention plan that's meaningful to their experience. We also connect them with resources for aftercare, including support groups, so they know where to turn when things get tough.
Cocaine relapse prevention strategies
- Identifying triggers and high-risk situations
- Building healthy coping mechanisms for stress and emotional pain
- Changing your environment to support abstinence
- Staying connected to a supportive recovery community
Aftercare and support groups
- Connections with ongoing therapy (individual, group, or family)
- Participation in recovery groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery
- Alumni programs and scheduled check-ins
- Crisis planning and support during challenging times
Holistic and supportive approaches
Taking care of yourself inside and out should be a priority as you detox from cocaine. We can help you take actionable steps to support your health and start making progress again.
Holistic detox approaches
Detoxing from cocaine can be a physically and emotionally challenging process, but there are ways to make it easier. We offer professional support during detox so you can focus on healing your mind, body, and spirit.
Mental health and addiction
Cocaine addiction is not just a physical dependence, it also affects your mental health. During detox and recovery, we provide dual diagnosis support to help you address any underlying issues that may have contributed to your addiction.
Substance abuse counseling
Our team of experienced therapists and counselors are here to support you throughout your detox and recovery journey. We offer individual therapy, group counseling, and gender-specific treatment options at our Aurora, CO, center. Professional counseling can help you understand why you started using cocaine and how to cope with challenging situations without relapsing.
Long-term recovery strategies
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease. Relapse is a normal part of the recovery journey for many people, but not everyone. Knowing that cocaine cravings can arise at any time—even after treatment—can help you know when it's time to reach out for help.
Signs of Cocaine Addiction
Recognizing the signs of cocaine addiction is an essential step in seeking help and beginning recovery. Common signs of cocaine addiction include:
- Intense cravings
- Inability to control or limit use
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Continuing to use despite negative consequences
- Sudden weight loss
- Dilated pupils
- Nosebleeds
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Mood swings
- Paranoia
- Withdrawing from loved ones
It's never too late to look for help. Over time, cocaine takes a toll on the body, so sooner is always better.
Risks of cocaine use
The risks associated with cocaine use can be severe and far-reaching.
- Short-term effects may include increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and heightened risk of heart attack or stroke.
- Long-term cocaine use can lead to serious health complications such as respiratory issues, damage to the nasal passages, organ damage, and mental health issues like anxiety or depression.
Cocaine addiction often has a serious impact on personal relationships, finances, and overall quality of life. Recovery is possible, and treatment makes it easier.
Maintaining long-term sobriety
Maintaining long-term sobriety after cocaine addiction is a challenging but deeply rewarding process. Building a strong support network, attending aftercare programs, and continuing therapy can all help you stay on track.
You'll also need to make some lifestyle changes. Getting regular exercise and eating nutritious foods can help you physically healthy. You can also try meditation or breathwork to reduce stress. Finding supportive friends also goes a long way, which might mean moving on from those who just want to party or use coke.
Start cocaine detox at Sheridan Grove Recovery today
The team at Sheridan Grove Recovery can help you or a loved one manage the detox and recovery process from cocaine addiction. Our programs are all delivered with compassion, respect, and a commitment to your long-term success.
We accept all Colorado Medicaid plans, and we’re here to help you understand your coverage. Our team will walk you through paying for treatment, explain your benefits, and make sure you know exactly what to expect. Call 303.268.2987 or contact us online now.
Frequently asked questions
Cocaine is metabolized in the liver and kidneys and excreted through urine. It's also eliminated through feces and sweat. While it leaves the bloodstream within hours, its metabolites can remain detectable for several days, depending on usage and individual metabolism.
The length of time for cocaine detox varies depending on the individual and their level of usage. In general, acute withdrawal symptoms can last anywhere from 5-7 days, but cravings and other psychological effects can persist.
Cocaine withdrawal happens in three stages: the "crash" with flu-like symptoms and low mood, cravings and mood swings lasting weeks, and a longer-term phase where cravings may reappear but improve with recovery and support.
Cocaine affects the reward and pleasure centers of the brain, making it particularly challenging to break the cycle of addiction. When you quit, you'll experience intense cravings and may have severe depression. These feelings can make it difficult to stay on track and resist the temptation to use again. However, with support and proper treatment, detoxing from cocaine is possible.
