Crack cocaine is a freebase type of cocaine that can be smoked. This form of cocaine is also called crack. Crack cocaine, like all forms of cocaine, can cause addiction in users. If an addicted person is deprived of the drug then they can experience withdrawal, which includes a group of symptoms that occur due to their physical addiction to the drug. Without the drug, their body, which has already adapted to the drug, will begin to malfunction.
Behavioral Changes
Rapid changes in behavior and mood are principal symptoms of cocaine withdrawal, states Medline Plus, a National Institutes of Health website. They often exhibit agitation and restless behavior. Addicts suffering from withdrawal can become aggressive and may become unable to sit still for an extended period of time. They may also exhibit vivid nightmares and this can interrupt sleep. This lack of sleep can add to the aggression and paranoia they experienced.
Depression
Depression is a common symptom associated with crack cocaine withdrawal, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Cocaine normally produces extreme happiness in users. However, when the drug is removed from their system, depression and possible suicidal tendencies can occur. The depression can prove much more severe than the depression seen in those suffering from withdrawal from other drugs such as heroin.
Severe Craving for Crack Cocaine
People suffering from crack cocaine withdrawal will have an extreme craving for the drug, according to Drugs.com. The drug causes a physical change in the biochemical production of the brain. These physical changes cause the body to crave the drug. In addition, the emotional euphoria provided by the drug causes a psychological desire for cocaine. The combination of the physical and psychological dependence ensures that anyone undergoing withdrawal from cocaine will have a severe craving for it.
Fatigue
A primary symptom associated with cocaine withdrawal is fatigue, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. People will develop this fatigue as well as general mild muscle pains and lack of motivation to perform normal daily activities. This overall tiredness and decrease in activity can add to their depression. The decrease in activity occurs gradually and usually starts after they overcome the feelings of agitation and increased irritability.
