Rehab is never easy, but it can be particularly difficult to work through stimulant addiction. Some may wonder though: is it harder to recover from amphetamine or cocaine abuse?
Amphetamine and Cocaine Addiction Treatment
Those who abuse either type of drug will require intensive treatment, often beginning with residential care and moving on to an outpatient facility as aftercare. This is partially because the withdrawal syndromes associated with both drugs are severe and long lasting. According to the National Library of Medicine, though, “The level of craving, irritability, delayed depression, and other symptoms produced by cocaine withdrawal is as strong as other types of withdrawal, or even stronger.” This makes it very difficult to treat cocaine withdrawal, as the symptoms linger and remain strong for months, sometimes even years.
Therapy is often used for both cocaine and amphetamine addiction.
Nevertheless, amphetamine withdrawal can be very difficult as well. As stated by the US Department of Veteran Affairs, “Psychosis is induced more commonly by amphetamine than by cocaine, perhaps because it is difficult to maintain high chronic levels of cocaine in the body.” The symptoms associated with this psychosis can be hard to move on from even after they subside as well as extremely dangerous during early withdrawal.
Which Treatment Program is Harder?
People are treated for cocaine and amphetamine abuse in many of the same ways. Similar behavioral therapies are used for both types of addictions, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy: teaches patients how to recognize and avoid triggers, cope with stress and cravings, and generally see their addictions and their substance abuse in a new way
- Contingency management: utilizes rewards and vouchers to keep patients from abusing drugs
- The Matrix Model: combines several different therapy methods along with a positive, affirming relationship between counselor and patient
- Group therapy: allows patients to meet other individuals struggling with the same problem they are and to find ways to improve their lives through the support of others
- Family and couples therapy: rebuilds relationships between addicts and their family members or significant others and helps both parties learn to swap negative behaviors for positive ones
Unfortunately, in both instances, there are no pharmacological treatments yet approved by the FDA, although some medications are used to minimize withdrawal symptoms, psychotic side effects, and other issues.
The treatment of both syndromes is difficult but is often made more successful when it is intensive, focused, and catering to the needs of the individual. It is also a complicated question to answer because certain individuals experience different recovery times as well as have different severities associated with their conditions.
Seek Stimulant Addiction Treatment Now
Whether you are addicted to cocaine or amphetamines, you should absolutely seek professional treatment right away. Residential care is often the safest way to begin your recovery, followed by outpatient care. Get help today at 800-816-1059(Who Answers?).
