Crack and cocaine might be similar, but they’ve some key differences worth knowing about. Crack is made by mixing cocaine with baking soda or ammonia, creating a substance that produces a high—much like cocaine. However, the two vary in how they look, how people use them, their cost, and the effects they have. People often view cocaine as the “original” form, but crack gained popularity because it costs less, is easier to find, and is simpler to use.
At Recovery Ranch PA, we understand the nuances of crack vs. cocaine and offer cocaine rehab in Wrightsville for those struggling with cocaine abuse. Call 717.969.9126 to learn more.
Crack vs. Cocaine: What Are the Differences?
Although crack is a derivative of cocaine, several differences distinguish each form of the drug.
Appearance
Cocaine comes from the coca plant, an indigenous plant found mainly in South America. In its original form, cocaine may look brown. However, once ground up and bleached, it turns into a fine white powdery substance. To make crack, the user dissolves cocaine into a mixture of water and baking soda or ammonia. The cocaine hardens into a yellowish-white rock that’s broken down into tiny rocks. The rocks are light, weighing only a tenth of a gram.
Street Price
How much a person pays for crack vs. cocaine depends on factors like market, availability, and location. Generally, powder cocaine tends to be more expensive than crack. This difference is mainly because a user may not experience the same high from crack as they would from pure cocaine.
Method of Use
The primary method for ingesting crack is to smoke it. Users smoke crack through a water pipe or glass pipe. When in powder form, there are several ways that a person can ingest cocaine, such as:
- Snort through a straw
- Swallow the cocaine
- Dissolve in water and inject through the veins
- Sprinkle on marijuana or tobacco and smoke it
- Apply to the gums throughout the mouth and let dissolve
It’s possible to grind crack, and then snort or inject it. However, this method is uncommon.
Effects of the Drug
Cocaine in powder and rock form triggers a significant release of dopamine in the brain, stimulating the central nervous system. This can create a burst of energy that lasts several minutes. Snorting powder cocaine may produce effects lasting up to 30 minutes while smoking crack typically lasts up to 10 minutes. Both forms of cocaine can lead to dilated pupils, decreased appetite, anxiety, restlessness, and high blood pressure within one to two hours after use.
Cocaine and crack can cause severe long-term health issues, immediate side effects, or even death. Common health risks include:
- Respiratory failure
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Seizures
- Psychosis
Chronic use may result in hyperstimulation, depression, aggressive behavior, or sudden death due to overdose. Despite these risks, many still turn to cocaine and crack because of their highly addictive nature.
How Cocaine Rehab Can Help
At Recovery Ranch PA, we understand the complexities of addiction and offer personalized cocaine rehab programs to address each person’s unique needs. Our program includes a combination of the following and more:
- Medical detox
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions
Our skilled team handles any medical or psychological issues that arise during the detox process. We also provide therapy sessions that focus on relapse prevention, coping skills, and addressing underlying issues that contribute to substance abuse. Our holistic approach includes yoga, meditation, and nutrition education to promote overall wellness.
Connect with Recovery Ranch PA and Get Started on Cocaine Rehab Today
Don’t let the differences between crack vs. cocaine keep you from seeking help. Recovery Ranch PA supports your journey toward a healthier and happier life. Contact us online or call 717.969.9126 today to learn more about our cocaine rehab program and start your path to recovery.
