Cocaine addiction treatment usually includes medical detox, therapy, and support programs that help people stay drug-free. The best treatment plans also address mental health issues and offer long-term care, such as counseling, support groups, and relapse prevention.
Cocaine is a potent drug that causes short-term pleasure but long-term harm. It can damage your heart, affect your brain, and make it hard to control your emotions. Many people think they can stop using cocaine on their own, but most need help to recover fully.
The good news is that recovery is possible. With the proper care and support, many people overcome cocaine addiction and rebuild their lives.
This guide is written by our addiction and recovery experts at Nirvana Recovery. We will walk you through the whole recovery process, from detox and therapy to medications, aftercare, and how to choose the right rehab center for you or a loved one.
Recognizing Cocaine Addiction: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Cocaine addiction can be hard to spot at first. Some people may hide their use, while others may not realize how serious their problem has become. But knowing the signs early can make a big difference in getting help.
Common symptoms of cocaine addiction include:
Sudden bursts of energy or talkativeness
Mood swings, anxiety, or irritability
Nosebleeds or frequent sniffing (if snorted)
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Risky behavior and poor judgment
Intense cravings or obsession with using again
Over time, users may need more of the drug to feel the same effect. This constant need for the drug is known as increased tolerance, which is a clear sign of dependency. When they try to stop, they might experience withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, depression, or restlessness.
If you or someone you love shows these signs, it’s time to seek a professional diagnosis. Most treatment centers use DSM-5 criteria to confirm cocaine use disorder and help build a custom care plan based on each person’s needs.
Detox & Withdrawal: What to Expect During Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Detox is often the first step in treating cocaine addiction, but it’s not a complete solution. It’s a short-term process that helps the body get rid of the drug and manage withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision.
When someone stops using cocaine, their brain goes into a crash. This period brings physical and emotional discomfort, and it’s called withdrawal. Some of the most common symptoms include:
Fatigue and low energy
Depressed mood or sadness
Restlessness or anxiety
Vivid dreams or nightmares
Increased appetite
Strong cravings for cocaine
These symptoms can begin within hours of the last use and usually last 5 to 7 days. While detox isn’t typically dangerous for cocaine users (unlike alcohol or opioids), it can be emotionally intense, especially for those also facing depression or anxiety.
A medically supervised detox program provides safety, structure, and emotional support. Staff may offer sleep aids, nutritional support, and calming techniques to ease the transition.
But detox alone isn’t treatment. It’s the first step. Long-term recovery requires therapy, support systems, and a plan to prevent relapse. Detox clears the body, but treatment heals the mind.
If you’re confused about whether to go with detox or rehab, read Detox Vs Rehab.
Medical Treatment Options & Medications for Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Right now, there is no FDA-approved pill that cures cocaine addiction. But doctors and researchers have found that certain medications can help reduce cravings and support recovery, primarily when used with therapy.
One option is desipramine, a type of antidepressant. It may help people feel more balanced and less likely to crave cocaine. Another is disulfiram, which is usually used to treat alcohol addiction but may also help people who use both alcohol and cocaine.
Other medications being studied include:
Modafinil – helps with focus and may reduce relapse
Topiramate – a seizure medication that may lower cocaine use
Naltrexone or buprenorphine – generally used for opioid addiction, but under review for stimulant use too
These drugs are not available everywhere and are usually given through clinical trials or special programs. That’s why it’s essential to work with a doctor or treatment center that understands how and when to use them.
Medication isn’t a complete solution. It can make therapy more effective, but it can’t replace counseling, peer support, or relapse planning. At places like Nirvana Recovery, medication is used only as part of a complete treatment plan that looks at the whole person, not just the drug use.
Rehab Program Types for Cocaine Addiction Treatment: Inpatient, Outpatient, & PHP
Cocaine addiction treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different people need different levels of care, depending on how severe their addiction is, whether they have mental health issues, and what kind of support they have at home.
Here are the three main types of treatment programs:
1. Inpatient or Residential Treatment
Inpatient treatment is the most structured option. You stay at a rehab center full-time, often for 30 to 90 days. It’s best for people with intense cravings, a long history of drug use, or mental health issues (called dual diagnosis).
2. Partial Hospitalization Program
In PHP, you get full-day treatment at a center but go home at night. It’s a step down from inpatient care, but still very structured. You attend therapy sessions, group programs, and check-ins with doctors.
3. Outpatient or IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program)
Outpatient care lets you live at home and visit the center several times weekly. It suits people with a stable home life and strong motivation to recover.
At Nirvana Recovery, we help you choose the right level of care through a complete assessment. Each program includes therapy, peer support, and relapse prevention to guide long-term recovery.
Behavioral & Holistic Therapies in Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Therapy is a big part of cocaine addiction treatment. It helps you understand why you use drugs, manage your emotions, and build better habits.
Behavioral Therapies
These are proven methods that focus on changing how you think and act. Two popular types are:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – helps you notice harmful thoughts and replace them with healthy ones
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – teaches you how to handle strong emotions and stay calm in challenging situations.
These therapies are used in one-on-one sessions or groups. Many treatment centers, including Nirvana Recovery, use both.
Holistic Therapies
Holistic therapies treat the whole person, body, mind, and spirit. They are not a replacement for medical care, but they add extra support during recovery.
Some examples are:
Yoga and meditation – to reduce stress
Art or music therapy – to express feelings
Breathing exercises – to relax and stay focused
These tools can help you stay calm, lower cravings, and feel more in control.
Dual Diagnosis for Cocaine Treatment Addiction Treatment: Treating Co-Occurring Disorders
Many people who struggle with cocaine addiction also deal with mental health issues. When someone has both, it’s called a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder.
Common mental health conditions that happen with addiction include:
Depression
Anxiety
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Bipolar disorder
These conditions can make addiction worse. For example, someone may use cocaine to escape sadness or panic. But cocaine can also make these mental health symptoms more severe.
Treating just the addiction, without treating the mental health issue, often leads to relapse. That’s why it’s crucial to treat both at the same time.
At Nirvana Recovery, we offer integrated treatment plans. These plans mean our therapists and medical staff work together to treat both the addiction and any mental health concerns.
Aftercare & Relapse Prevention For Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Recovery doesn’t end when rehab is over. The weeks and months after treatment are when relapse is most likely to happen. A strong aftercare plan is as essential as detox or therapy.
Aftercare is the support you receive after leaving a treatment program. It helps you stay sober, deal with stress, and avoid falling back into old habits.
Good aftercare plans often include:
Peer support groups (like 12-step meetings or SMART Recovery)
Ongoing therapy (one-on-one or group)
Relapse prevention plans
Sober living options for extra structure
Check-ins or follow-up care from your treatment center
At Nirvana Recovery, we help each person create a custom aftercare plan. We also connect you with alumni programs and peer mentors who understand what you’re going through because they’ve been there, too.
Choosing the Right Treatment Center for Cocaine Addiction Treatment: Why Nirvana Recovery
With so many treatment options available, knowing which one is right for you can be difficult.
Here are a few things to look for in a cocaine addiction treatment center:
Licensed and accredited facility
Personalized treatment plans
Dual diagnosis care (for mental health and addiction)
Medical staff on-site
Therapy, aftercare, and support in one place
Comfortable, safe environment
Nirvana Recovery in Phoenix, Arizona, offers all of this and more. We are a state-licensed rehab center with a team of experienced professionals. Our programs include inpatient,outpatient, and PHP options to get the right level of care for your needs.
Our treatment plans are customized for each person and include therapy, holistic care, and relapse prevention under one roof. Whether you live in Arizona or seek care away from home, we’re here to help you heal.
Ready to Start Your Recovery? Let Us Help You Take the First Step
Cocaine addiction doesn’t define you, and it doesn’t have to control your future. Whether this is your first time seeking help or you’ve tried before, the proper support can make all the difference.
At Nirvana Recovery, we offer safe, compassionate, and personalized care that treats both the body and the mind. From detox and therapy to aftercare and relapse prevention, we’re here for every part of your journey.
📍 Serving Phoenix, Arizona, and nearby areas Your recovery starts now, and we’re ready to walk with you.
FAQs: Common Questions About Cocaine Addiction Treatment
1. Can I recover from cocaine addiction without going to rehab?
It’s possible, but very hard. Most people who try to quit alone relapse. Rehab gives you the medical help, therapy, and support you need to stay sober long-term.
2. How long does cocaine treatment take?
Treatment length depends on your needs. Many programs last 30, 60, or 90 days. Some people also join outpatient or aftercare programs for extra support over time.
3. What therapy is used in cocaine addiction treatment?
Most centers use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy). These help you change harmful habits, control emotions, and stay on track in recovery.
4. Are medications used to treat cocaine addiction?
Yes, but they don’t work alone. Medicines like disulfiram and desipramine may reduce cravings or help with mood. They’re most effective when used with therapy.
5. How much does cocaine rehab cost?
Costs vary based on the program and location. Many centers accept insurance. At Nirvana Recovery, we offer multiple options and can help you check your coverage.
Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Published On June 14, 2025
Table of Contents
Cocaine addiction treatment usually includes medical detox, therapy, and support programs that help people stay drug-free. The best treatment plans also address mental health issues and offer long-term care, such as counseling, support groups, and relapse prevention.
Cocaine is a potent drug that causes short-term pleasure but long-term harm. It can damage your heart, affect your brain, and make it hard to control your emotions. Many people think they can stop using cocaine on their own, but most need help to recover fully.
The good news is that recovery is possible. With the proper care and support, many people overcome cocaine addiction and rebuild their lives.
This guide is written by our addiction and recovery experts at Nirvana Recovery. We will walk you through the whole recovery process, from detox and therapy to medications, aftercare, and how to choose the right rehab center for you or a loved one.
Schedule a consultation with our addiction and recovery experts at Nirvana Recovery.
Recognizing Cocaine Addiction: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Cocaine addiction can be hard to spot at first. Some people may hide their use, while others may not realize how serious their problem has become. But knowing the signs early can make a big difference in getting help.
Common symptoms of cocaine addiction include:
Over time, users may need more of the drug to feel the same effect. This constant need for the drug is known as increased tolerance, which is a clear sign of dependency. When they try to stop, they might experience withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, depression, or restlessness.
If you or someone you love shows these signs, it’s time to seek a professional diagnosis. Most treatment centers use DSM-5 criteria to confirm cocaine use disorder and help build a custom care plan based on each person’s needs.
Detox & Withdrawal: What to Expect During Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Detox is often the first step in treating cocaine addiction, but it’s not a complete solution. It’s a short-term process that helps the body get rid of the drug and manage withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision.
When someone stops using cocaine, their brain goes into a crash. This period brings physical and emotional discomfort, and it’s called withdrawal. Some of the most common symptoms include:
These symptoms can begin within hours of the last use and usually last 5 to 7 days. While detox isn’t typically dangerous for cocaine users (unlike alcohol or opioids), it can be emotionally intense, especially for those also facing depression or anxiety.
A medically supervised detox program provides safety, structure, and emotional support. Staff may offer sleep aids, nutritional support, and calming techniques to ease the transition.
Read how detox centers help in addiction recovery.
But detox alone isn’t treatment. It’s the first step. Long-term recovery requires therapy, support systems, and a plan to prevent relapse. Detox clears the body, but treatment heals the mind.
If you’re confused about whether to go with detox or rehab, read Detox Vs Rehab.
Medical Treatment Options & Medications for Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Right now, there is no FDA-approved pill that cures cocaine addiction. But doctors and researchers have found that certain medications can help reduce cravings and support recovery, primarily when used with therapy.
One option is desipramine, a type of antidepressant. It may help people feel more balanced and less likely to crave cocaine. Another is disulfiram, which is usually used to treat alcohol addiction but may also help people who use both alcohol and cocaine.
Other medications being studied include:
These drugs are not available everywhere and are usually given through clinical trials or special programs. That’s why it’s essential to work with a doctor or treatment center that understands how and when to use them.
Medication isn’t a complete solution. It can make therapy more effective, but it can’t replace counseling, peer support, or relapse planning. At places like Nirvana Recovery, medication is used only as part of a complete treatment plan that looks at the whole person, not just the drug use.
Rehab Program Types for Cocaine Addiction Treatment: Inpatient, Outpatient, & PHP
Cocaine addiction treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different people need different levels of care, depending on how severe their addiction is, whether they have mental health issues, and what kind of support they have at home.
Here are the three main types of treatment programs:
1. Inpatient or Residential Treatment
Inpatient treatment is the most structured option. You stay at a rehab center full-time, often for 30 to 90 days. It’s best for people with intense cravings, a long history of drug use, or mental health issues (called dual diagnosis).
2. Partial Hospitalization Program
In PHP, you get full-day treatment at a center but go home at night. It’s a step down from inpatient care, but still very structured. You attend therapy sessions, group programs, and check-ins with doctors.
3. Outpatient or IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program)
Outpatient care lets you live at home and visit the center several times weekly. It suits people with a stable home life and strong motivation to recover.
Read about the different types of rehab facilities to learn more about them.
At Nirvana Recovery, we help you choose the right level of care through a complete assessment. Each program includes therapy, peer support, and relapse prevention to guide long-term recovery.
Behavioral & Holistic Therapies in Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Therapy is a big part of cocaine addiction treatment. It helps you understand why you use drugs, manage your emotions, and build better habits.
Behavioral Therapies
These are proven methods that focus on changing how you think and act. Two popular types are:
These therapies are used in one-on-one sessions or groups. Many treatment centers, including Nirvana Recovery, use both.
Holistic Therapies
Holistic therapies treat the whole person, body, mind, and spirit. They are not a replacement for medical care, but they add extra support during recovery.
Some examples are:
These tools can help you stay calm, lower cravings, and feel more in control.
Dual Diagnosis for Cocaine Treatment Addiction Treatment: Treating Co-Occurring Disorders
Many people who struggle with cocaine addiction also deal with mental health issues. When someone has both, it’s called a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder.
Common mental health conditions that happen with addiction include:
These conditions can make addiction worse. For example, someone may use cocaine to escape sadness or panic. But cocaine can also make these mental health symptoms more severe.
Treating just the addiction, without treating the mental health issue, often leads to relapse. That’s why it’s crucial to treat both at the same time.
At Nirvana Recovery, we offer integrated treatment plans. These plans mean our therapists and medical staff work together to treat both the addiction and any mental health concerns.
Aftercare & Relapse Prevention For Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Recovery doesn’t end when rehab is over. The weeks and months after treatment are when relapse is most likely to happen. A strong aftercare plan is as essential as detox or therapy.
Aftercare is the support you receive after leaving a treatment program. It helps you stay sober, deal with stress, and avoid falling back into old habits.
Good aftercare plans often include:
At Nirvana Recovery, we help each person create a custom aftercare plan. We also connect you with alumni programs and peer mentors who understand what you’re going through because they’ve been there, too.
Choosing the Right Treatment Center for Cocaine Addiction Treatment: Why Nirvana Recovery
With so many treatment options available, knowing which one is right for you can be difficult.
Here are a few things to look for in a cocaine addiction treatment center:
Nirvana Recovery in Phoenix, Arizona, offers all of this and more. We are a state-licensed rehab center with a team of experienced professionals. Our programs include inpatient, outpatient, and PHP options to get the right level of care for your needs.
Our treatment plans are customized for each person and include therapy, holistic care, and relapse prevention under one roof. Whether you live in Arizona or seek care away from home, we’re here to help you heal.
Call Nirvana Recovery Today!
Ready to Start Your Recovery? Let Us Help You Take the First Step
Cocaine addiction doesn’t define you, and it doesn’t have to control your future. Whether this is your first time seeking help or you’ve tried before, the proper support can make all the difference.
At Nirvana Recovery, we offer safe, compassionate, and personalized care that treats both the body and the mind. From detox and therapy to aftercare and relapse prevention, we’re here for every part of your journey.
Take the first step today.
📍 Serving Phoenix, Arizona, and nearby areas
Your recovery starts now, and we’re ready to walk with you.
FAQs: Common Questions About Cocaine Addiction Treatment
It’s possible, but very hard. Most people who try to quit alone relapse. Rehab gives you the medical help, therapy, and support you need to stay sober long-term.
Treatment length depends on your needs. Many programs last 30, 60, or 90 days. Some people also join outpatient or aftercare programs for extra support over time.
Most centers use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy). These help you change harmful habits, control emotions, and stay on track in recovery.
Yes, but they don’t work alone. Medicines like disulfiram and desipramine may reduce cravings or help with mood. They’re most effective when used with therapy.
Costs vary based on the program and location. Many centers accept insurance. At Nirvana Recovery, we offer multiple options and can help you check your coverage.