Cocaine comes from the cocoa plant and was used in earlier times for its anesthetic properties to numb the body during surgery. Cocaine comes in a powdered form and can be eaten, injected or snorted. Crack cocaine is considered a harsher derivative of cocaine, which is heated to create a more intense product. Crack is cheaper and easier to get on the streets and provides a considerable high for the user. Most commonly crack cocaine is smoked in its rock form and is exceptionally addictive both mentally and physically. In recent years, both cocaine and crack have grown in popularity, reaching a wider population demographically, including much younger, new users. In general, the symptoms and effects of cocaine and crack cocaine are similar in nature. People who use these drugs experience a “good feeling” known as the high or the fix when the drug is taken into their bodies. Cocaine and crack cocaine are both stimulants, meaning they stimulate activity in the brain and body, causing a desire for increased activity. Effects of cocaine and crack cocaine may include anxiety, sleeplessness, paranoia, mood swings and later, depression. Compulsive behavior also characterizes cocaine and crack users’ lives because more desperate actions may have to be taken to get the drugs they need. Both of these drugs may take people down the road of addiction, even if a person believes otherwise. Cocaine and crack are both very addictive and lead to increased tolerance, cravings and addiction. There is help for cocaine and crack cocaine addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling with drug addiction and needs help, call us today.