Cocaine use disorder

Cocaine Use Disorder is a mental health disorder characterized by a problematic pattern of cocaine use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. It is a type of substance use disorder, which is an umbrella term for a range of issues associated with the use of drugs or alcohol.

Definition

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Cocaine Use Disorder is defined as a problematic pattern of cocaine use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as manifested by at least two of the following, occurring within a 12-month period:

• Cocaine is often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended.
• There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control cocaine use.
• A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain cocaine, use cocaine, or recover from its effects.
• Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use cocaine.
• Recurrent cocaine use resulting in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home.
• Continued cocaine use despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of cocaine.
• Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of cocaine use.
• Recurrent cocaine use in situations in which it is physically hazardous.
• Cocaine use is continued despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by cocaine.
• Tolerance, as defined by either of the following: a) A need for markedly increased amounts of cocaine to achieve intoxication or desired effect. b) Markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of cocaine.
• Withdrawal, as manifested by either of the following: a) The characteristic withdrawal syndrome for cocaine. b) Cocaine (or a closely related substance) is taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for Cocaine Use Disorder typically involves a combination of medical treatment, psychotherapy, and support groups. Medications may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and treat any co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. Psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, can help individuals change their attitudes and behaviors related to drug use, increase healthy life skills, and persist with other forms of treatment. Support groups can provide a community of individuals who are experiencing the same struggles and can provide a sense of belonging, shared experiences, and peer support.

See also

• Substance use disorder
• Drug addiction
• Cocaine dependence
• Cocaine withdrawal
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Motivational interviewing