Cocaine Use Disorder
A substance use disorder involving a problematic pattern of cocaine use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.
Overview
Cocaine use disorder involves a problematic pattern of cocaine use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, including strong cravings, tolerance, and continued use despite serious consequences.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include using more than intended, unsuccessful efforts to cut down, strong cravings, and continued use despite physical, psychological, or social harm. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
Risk factors include genetic predisposition, co-occurring mental health conditions, and social or environmental exposure to cocaine use.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Behavioral therapies, particularly contingency management and cognitive behavioral therapy, have strong evidence supporting their use.
Living With Cocaine Use Disorder
Cocaine use carries serious cardiovascular risks; seeking prompt medical and behavioral treatment support is important.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Recovery is achievable with sustained behavioral treatment and structured support, though the condition often requires ongoing relapse-prevention planning.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.