Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that produces an intense but short-lived high, which drives a cycle of bingeing and crashing that can quickly turn into addiction. Whether it’s used as powder or as crack, cocaine creates strong psychological dependence and can cause serious heart, brain and mental health problems.

At The Recovery Village Columbus, we treat cocaine addiction with evidence-based behavioral therapies and 24/7 medical support. Our Joint Commission-accredited campus in Groveport, Ohio, offers every step of care in one place, from medical detox through intensive outpatient treatment.

Call (614) 362-1686 for a free, confidential assessment.

Cocaine Withdrawal and Detox

Unlike alcohol or opioid withdrawal, cocaine withdrawal is mostly psychological rather than physically dangerous. It can still be intensely uncomfortable, and it’s one of the main drivers of relapse.

Common symptoms include a “crash” with extreme fatigue, long sleep and increased appetite, depression that can become severe, anxiety and irritability, an inability to feel pleasure (anhedonia), vivid or unpleasant dreams, trouble concentrating and intense cravings.

Our medical team monitors cocaine withdrawal and treats symptoms as they come up. There are no FDA-approved medications specifically for cocaine use disorder, but our physicians may use medications to help with sleep problems, depression and anxiety. Learn more about our medical detox program.

Why Supervised Care Helps During Stimulant Withdrawal

Because cocaine withdrawal isn’t usually life-threatening, many people try to push through it alone. The first days and weeks are when relapse risk is highest, though. In a supervised setting:

  • Staff watch for severe depression and thoughts of suicide, which can appear during the crash, and respond right away.
  • You’re away from people, places and money tied to cocaine use while cravings are strongest.
  • Sleep, nutrition and co-occurring mental health symptoms are treated instead of left to settle on their own.
  • Therapy starts right away, so you begin building coping skills before you go home.

Cocaine Rehab Programs at The Recovery Village Columbus

Your level of care depends on your needs, and you can move between levels on the same campus:

Therapies for Cocaine Addiction

Behavioral therapy is the core of cocaine addiction treatment. Depending on your needs, your plan may include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to spot and change the thoughts and situations that lead to cocaine use.
  • Contingency management, which gives small, tangible rewards for drug-free test results. It’s one of the best-supported treatments for stimulant addiction.
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to manage intense emotions and cravings.
  • Trauma-focused therapy, such as cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and EMDR when it’s clinically appropriate.
  • Family sessions and weekly family recovery support.
  • Peer support through 12-step and SMART Recovery groups.

Cocaine addiction often occurs alongside depression, anxiety or PTSD. Our dual diagnosis treatment addresses both at the same time.

Cocaine, Fentanyl and Overdose Risk

Cocaine sold on the street can be contaminated with fentanyl, and many people who use cocaine have no tolerance to opioids. According to the CDC, most cocaine-involved overdose deaths in the U.S. also involve fentanyl or other synthetic opioids. If you or someone you love uses cocaine, keep naloxone (Narcan) on hand and know how to use it. Learn where to get naloxone in Columbus and how fentanyl test strips work.

Insurance and Admissions

Most insurance plans cover treatment for cocaine addiction. The Recovery Village Columbus is in network with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare/Optum, Humana, Medical Mutual of Ohio and other plans. Verify your insurance, or call (614) 362-1686 to check your benefits. Walk-ins are welcome.

FAQ: Cocaine Addiction Treatment

Is there medication for cocaine addiction?

There are no FDA-approved medications specifically for cocaine use disorder. Treatment relies on behavioral therapies such as CBT and contingency management, which have strong evidence behind them. Medications may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring conditions.

How long does cocaine rehab take?

It depends on your needs and progress. At The Recovery Village Columbus, residential treatment usually lasts 28 to 30 days after detox, and many people then step down to PHP and IOP, for a total of about 50 to 60 days.

Is cocaine withdrawal dangerous?

Cocaine withdrawal isn’t usually physically dangerous, but severe depression and cravings can lead to relapse and, for some people, thoughts of suicide. Professional treatment provides monitoring and support through this period. If you’re in crisis, call or text 988.

What is contingency management?

Contingency management is a behavioral treatment that rewards progress, such as a negative drug test, with small incentives. Research shows it helps people stay in treatment and stop using stimulants like cocaine and meth.

How do I know if someone needs cocaine rehab?

Signs include using more than intended, being unable to cut back, spending money meant for bills on cocaine and continuing to use despite problems at home or work. Learn the signs of cocaine use or read more about cocaine addiction.

Sources: National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Cocaine Research Report”; SAMHSA, “Treatment of Stimulant Use Disorders” (TIP 33); Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Stimulant Overdose.”