Crack Addiction
Crack, also known as Rob Ford, Mandy candy, Candy, Hubba, Hubba rock, Rocks, Pebbles, and Toot is created by mixing powdered cocaine, water, and another substance, often baking powder. This is boiled until a rock is formed. Crack gets it's name from the process of smoking it by heating it - making a crackling sound. Crack is smoked in a pipe or bong to bring on a high which lasts 5-10 minutes
What to look for in crack addiction
Whilst under the influence of crack cocaine, the user will have:
- Dilated pupils
- Dry mouth and nose
- Bad breath
- Muscle spasms
- Shaking
You will also notice a chemical smell near the place of last use, like burnt plastic mixed with other chemicals.
What are the effects of crack cocaine on the user?
Like most drugs, there and long term and short term effects on the user. These include physical as well as mental symptoms.
Short term effects of crack cocaine use
As mentioned above, when someone is under the influence of crack cocaine you can expect to see:
- Dilated pupils
- Dry mouth and nose
- Bad breath
- Muscle spasms
- Shaking
You may also notice extreme bursts of energy and stimulation. This can be characterised by talking rapidly and consuming food at an unusual rate, or, conversely, not eating at all.
Once the effects of crack cocaine wear off, you will notice a "crash" - the user may fall asleep wherever they are and potentially sleep for days.
Long term effects of crack cocaine use
The long term effects of crack cocaine use include:
- Irritability
- Argumentative
- Violence
- Erratic behaviour
- Not interested in food even when sustenance hasn't been consumed in a long way
- Suffering from sleeping trouble
- Unable to maintain focus on a conversation
Other long term effects include: severe damage to the heart, liver and kidneys. Users are also far more susceptible to infectious disease.
