Cocaine addiction can be difficult to spot, especially in its early stages. Many people who use cocaine appear functional, and you may not immediately notice the subtle changes in your loved one’s behavior. But as use continues, the effects become more apparent, and this leads to serious physical, emotional, and financial consequences.

If you suspect that someone close to you is struggling with substance abuse, recognizing the signs of cocaine addiction can help you take action before the problem escalates. In this blog we give you the signs of cocaine addiction, and let you know when casual use turns into dependency and what to expect during detox and withdrawal.

If you suspect your loved one is addicted to cocaine, help is available. Contact us on +44 20 4530 5225 to talk about solutions for your loved one.

Increased Energy and Restlessness

One of the most common cocaine addiction signs is a sudden and unnatural increase in energy levels. Cocaine is a stimulant that floods the brain with dopamine, making users feel euphoric, confident, and highly active. You may notice that your loved one:

• Becomes unusually talkative and energetic, even in situations where such behavior is out of character
• Struggles to sit still, constantly moving, pacing, or fidgeting
• Appears overconfident or impulsive, taking risks they normally wouldn’t
• Has trouble sleeping, yet still seems alert and hyperactive

The flip side to this behavior is the crash that follows a binge. You may also see this person become very lethargic, sometimes spending days lying in bed or moping around the house.

Changes in Mood and Behavior

Cocaine’s effects on the brain extend beyond physical stimulation, it also impacts emotions and decision-making. People struggling with cocaine addiction signs often experience dramatic mood swings, shifting from extreme confidence and excitement to irritability, paranoia, or even aggression.

You may notice:

• Unusual bursts of happiness or excitement, followed by sudden mood crashes
• Increased irritability or defensiveness, especially when asked about their behavior
• Paranoid thoughts, such as believing others are watching or plotting against them
• Aggressive reactions to minor conflicts or perceived slights
• Depression and anxiety, particularly when coming down from a high

These mood shifts can strain relationships and create emotional instability in the home, making it essential to address the issue before it escalates.

Physical Signs of Cocaine Use

In addition to behavioral changes, physical signs of cocaine use are often noticeable, especially as addiction progresses. Some of the most common physical symptoms include:

• Dilated pupils, even in well-lit environments
• Frequent nosebleeds or a constantly runny nose (if snorted)
• Burn marks on fingers or lips (if smoked as crack cocaine)
• Rapid weight loss due to decreased appetite
• Twitching, tremors, or muscle spasms
• Excessive sweating and rapid heart rate

Long-term use can also lead to serious health complications, including heart problems, respiratory issues, and weakened immune function.  Overdose is not common in cocaine use, but it does happen. People who are addicted to cocaine also run the risk of heart attack due to drug use. 

These occurrences are more likely to happen if the person using cocaine is also using other substances, like alcohol, heroin and Xanax.

Financial Problems and Unexplained Spending

Cocaine is an expensive drug, and addiction often leads to irresponsible spending habits. If your loved one is struggling with cocaine addiction, you may notice:

• Frequent cash withdrawals or missing money without explanation
• Selling personal belongings to fund drug use
• Neglecting bills or financial responsibilities
• Sudden borrowing of money with vague or inconsistent reasons
• Increased secrecy around finances, refusing to discuss money issues

Financial struggles often lead to increased stress and anxiety, which can further fuel the cycle of addiction. The addicted person may become indebted to drug dealers, leading to threats of violence or violence. It is also common for drug dealers to use people who owe them money to deliver drugs on their behalf.

Social Withdrawal and Relationship Issues

As cocaine addiction worsens, it often leads to isolation and strained relationships. Many users begin withdrawing from family and friends to avoid confrontation or hide their substance use. This can manifest as:

• Avoiding family gatherings or social events they previously enjoyed
• Lying about their whereabouts or creating excuses to be alone
• Spending time with a new group of people who encourage drug use
• Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school
• Increased conflicts or emotional distance in relationships

If someone you love is pulling away emotionally or physically, it may be time to address the possibility of a substance abuse problem.

When Does Cocaine Use Turn Into Addiction?

Casual cocaine use can quickly escalate into addiction, especially if someone is using it frequently to escape stress, anxiety, or depression. Signs that recreational use has turned into dependency include:

• Needing more cocaine to feel the same high (tolerance)
• Using cocaine despite negative consequences (e.g., legal, financial, or relationship problems)
• Experiencing cravings or withdrawal symptoms when not using
• Being unable to stop or control use, even when they want to

If your loved one is showing multiple signs of cocaine addiction, they may need professional help to recover.

Detox and Withdrawal: What to Expect

One of the biggest challenges in overcoming cocaine addiction is the withdrawal process. When a person stops using cocaine, they may experience symptoms such as:

• Intense cravings for cocaine
• Fatigue and extreme tiredness
• Depression or mood swings
• Irritability and agitation
• Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or nightmares

Because withdrawal can be physically and emotionally difficult, professional detox programs provide a safe and supportive environment for recovery. If your loved one is struggling with addiction, guiding them toward a medically supervised detox can help them begin the healing process.

Other Drugs Which Show Similar Signs

Be aware that there are other stimulant drugs which also give those addicted many of these telltale signs, with a couple of differences. If you see signs your loved one is using stimulants but are not sure exactly which drug they are using, reach out to an addiction professional. They may be able to help.

Crystal Meth

People who are addicted to meth also follow many of the patterns outlined in this blog, though changes in patterns of behavior may be somewhat different. As meth is a far longer-lasting drug than cocaine, meth users typically stay awake for much longer. Crystal meth also has the tendency to cause even more psychological damage than cocaine, and meth users’ health typically deteriorates faster than that of people addicted to cocaine.

However, as crystal meth is less expensive than cocaine, it may take longer for people who are addicted to it to begin encountering financial issues.

Crack Cocaine

Crack is a form of cocaine which is smoked. Crack delivers a shorter and more intense high than cocaine. This drug can be even more costly than cocaine, leading to financial problems more quickly in those who are addicted. Crack can also cause mental health problems more rapidly than cocaine.

Helping Your Loved One Recover From Cocaine Addiction

If you have spotted some of the signs of cocaine addiction, it is understandable that you may be deeply troubled. After all, cocaine addiction can cause despair in those who fall victim to it, as well as those around them.

Fortunately, it is possible to make a complete recovery from cocaine addiction. At Rehab in Thailand, our team is committed to connecting you with the centre perfect for the person you care about’s recovery. To get help, contact us today on +44 20 4530 5225.