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Characteristics of Crack Cocaine Users

Habitual users of crack cocaine may display a number of abnormal characteristics brought about by the long- and short-term effects of the drug.

  1. Effects

    • Smoking crack cocaine quickly produces euphoric stimulant effects by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Someone who is under the influence of crack cocaine may become overly energetic and excitable.

    Physical

    • Cocaine diminishes the appetite and may cause frequent users to become emaciated and malnourished. Addicts may display burns on their hands from smoking crack.

    Psychological

    • Prolonged, habitual use of crack cocaine causes anxiety, agitation and paranoia. Psychosis, characterized by a detachment from reality and auditory hallucinations, may also develop.

    Social

    • Long-term crack users lose the ability to function normally in social settings. They may withdraw from non-drug related activities and social bonds.

    Preoccupation

    • Addiction to crack cocaine causes a preoccupation with obtaining and using the drug. Such a preoccupation can lead to compulsive and criminal behavior.

    Use

    • According to the 2007 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 610,000 people aged 12 and older were crack cocaine users.

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