Cocaine is one of the most addictive drugs of choice used by millions of people worldwide. The drug has become popular because of its ability to cause pleasure and a feeling of euphoria and give a false sense of well-being. Cocaine affects the nervous system and causes a natural chemical located in the brain called dopamine to send pleasure signals. Most cocaine users experience experience some common side effects. These effects become common characteristics of crack cocaine users.
Paranoia
Paranoia is one of the most common characteristics of crack cocaine users. Users may start to believe that other people are looking to hurt them and perceive this as a real threat. Paranoia may also become so severe that it alters a user's perception of reality and what is happening in the present. According to National Institute on Drug Abuse, paranoia may cause users to experience hallucinations or other serious mental disorders over time.
Weight Loss
Crack cocaine users often lose their appetite. The drug sends the brain a signal of satiation, which tricks the mind into believing it is full. Consequently, users can go for days without eating. The drug also provides a high level of energy, making users much more active. This cycle will ultimately lead to a significant amount of weight loss in a short amount of time. People who were once of normal weight may begin to look more skeletal. According to the Erowid.org website, crack cocaine use can temporarily increase a person's ability to move more athletically or perform sports.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Cocaine users may experience symptoms of withdrawal only hours after having the initial dose. Their focus turns to experiencing the high again at any cost. In this stage of crack cocaine use, individuals lose their ability to reason properly. They may turn to criminal activity to buy more drugs. This may include stealing or prostitution. Symptoms of cocaine withdrawal include extreme cravings for the drug as well as restlessness. According to the National Library of Health, cocaine users may experience high levels of irritability that can lead to anxiety and depression. To avoid strong cravings, cocaine users often go on long binges of cocaine use. This restores their feeling of well-being.
