Our Resources
Here you can find articles written for educational purposes about what services we offer, drug and alcohol facts and the many different locations we service in Wisconsin. Contact us today with any questions.
Explore the dangers of cocaine and alcohol mix, its lethal health implications, and the path to recovery.
Before delving into the complexities of the dangers of cocaine and alcohol, it's essential to understand the risks involved. These substances, when consumed separately, carry their own set of hazards. However, their combination can lead to even more severe consequences.
When cocaine and alcohol are taken together, they form a metabolite known as cocaethylene. This substance is stronger than either drug alone, and it increases the risk of sudden heart-related problems such as a heart attack or changes in heart rhythms [1].
Cocaethylene has an equal potency to cocaine but has a longer half-life, which extends the psychoactive effects of cocaine. This leads to a higher risk of dangerous and toxic effects on the cardiovascular system, including heart attack and stroke.
Additionally, the presence of cocaethylene can elevate the risk of a stroke for days to weeks due to its extended presence in the body.
The combination of cocaine and alcohol not only increases toxicity to the heart but can also have lethal effects on the liver and other major organs. It is reported that the risk of sudden death from a heart attack or stroke due to the concurrent use of cocaine and alcohol is 18 times higher than using cocaine alone [2].
Moreover, the formation of cocaethylene can lead to persistent and potentially longer-lasting panic and anxiety attacks. It can also negatively impact intelligence, memory, and verbal learning compared to taking either substance alone [2].
Understanding these risks underscores the importance of spreading awareness about the dangers of cocaine and alcohol. The lethal effects on major organs and the heightened risk of cardiovascular issues highlight the immediate need for intervention and treatment options for those struggling with substance use.
Understanding the dangers of cocaine and alcohol requires exploring the behavioral and health implications of their combined use. These implications revolve around increased impulsivity and risk factors, as well as cravings that encourage continued use of both substances.
Mixing cocaine and alcohol can lead to heightened impulsivity due to elevated levels of brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin. This combination creates a potent cocktail that significantly increases the risk of heart-related problems. According to Healthline, the concurrent use of cocaine and alcohol is 18 times more likely to lead to sudden death from heart attack or stroke, compared to using cocaine alone.
Alongside these heightened risks, studies suggest a range of prevalence rates for concurrent cocaine and alcohol use, from 37% to 96%, with an estimated 74% prevalence rate of simultaneous alcohol use among individuals who use cocaine American Addiction Centers.
The use of alcohol can increase cravings for cocaine, thereby complicating efforts to quit both substances. This increased craving often leads individuals to binge-drink in an attempt to maintain the effects of cocaine and avoid withdrawal symptoms, thus contributing to continued use Healthline.
These statistics highlight the interplay between alcohol and cocaine use:
These figures illuminate the severity of the issue, with nearly 60% of individuals with a cocaine use disorder also having an alcohol use disorder, and half of those using cocaine being diagnosed with alcohol dependence. The research reflects that individuals with SUD have a greater vulnerability to developing AUD American Addiction Centers.
The behavioral and health implications of cocaine and alcohol use serve as a stark reminder of the risks associated with these substances. Understanding these implications is crucial for anyone seeking to comprehend the extent of the dangers that come with the combined use of cocaine and alcohol.
The health consequences of combining cocaine and alcohol are severe and life-threatening. Let's delve deeper into understanding the risks associated with stroke, cardiovascular complications, and substance use disorder.
When cocaine and alcohol are mixed, the body generates a lethal metabolite known as cocaethylene. This compound is more potent than either drug alone and significantly amplifies toxicity to the heart, liver, and other vital organs. As a result, it escalates the risk of sudden heart-related complications such as heart attacks or changes in heart rhythms. The hazards extend to an increased risk of stroke due to the deadly combination of cocaine and alcohol [1].
According to American Addiction Centers, the risk of sudden death from heart attack or stroke due to the simultaneous use of cocaine and alcohol is reported to be 18 times higher than using cocaine alone.
The concurrent use of cocaine and alcohol often leads to a vicious cycle of increased cravings and continued use. Studies indicate that alcohol can exacerbate cravings for cocaine, thereby making it more challenging for individuals to cease using both substances. This heightened craving often leads users to binge-drink to maintain the effects of cocaine and avoid withdrawal, contributing to continued use.
Research shows alarming statistics in this regard. Around 966,000 individuals met the criteria for substance use disorder (SUD) in the United States, with more than 2 million people experiencing both alcohol use disorder (AUD) and SUD. Furthermore, half of those using cocaine have been diagnosed with alcohol dependence [1].
A study by the American Addiction Centers revealed that rates of concurrent cocaine and alcohol use ranged from 37% to 96%, with an estimated 74% prevalence rate of simultaneous alcohol use among people who used cocaine.
These alarming statistics underscore the severity of the dangers of cocaine and alcohol, reinforcing the need for comprehensive treatment and preventive measures.
When discussing the dangers of cocaine and alcohol, it's critical to understand the role of cocaethylene, a hazardous metabolite produced when these substances are combined.
Cocaethylene is created when cocaine and alcohol are consumed together [1]. This chemical reaction occurs in the liver, producing a metabolite that is equal in potency to cocaine but has a longer half-life, thereby extending the psychoactive effects of cocaine.
The presence of cocaethylene not only enhances the feelings of energy, focus, and excitement typically induced by cocaine but also amplifies the drug's toxic effects, particularly on the cardiovascular system. This can lead to severe health complications such as heart attack and stroke, even sudden death.
Additionally, cocaethylene can heighten the risk of experiencing persistent and potentially longer-lasting panic and anxiety attacks, and negatively impact intelligence, memory, and verbal learning compared to taking either substance alone.
The dangers of cocaethylene extend beyond immediate health risks. As a metabolite with increased potency and longevity, cocaethylene can have long-term effects on users' health, particularly for those with chronic usage patterns.
In addition to the significant strain on the cardiovascular system, the consumption of cocaine and alcohol can mask the effects of each other. This can lead individuals to misjudge their level of intoxication, potentially leading to an overdose.
Moreover, the prolonged presence of cocaethylene in the system can cause serious health effects and longer-lasting panic and anxiety attacks for chronic cocaine users.
In conclusion, the production of cocaethylene when cocaine and alcohol are combined significantly increases the risks associated with substance use. Understanding the dangers associated with this potent metabolite is crucial in promoting awareness and reducing the harm caused by polysubstance use.
Delving into the dangers of cocaine and alcohol, it's crucial to highlight the complications arising from polysubstance use. This term refers to the concurrent use of multiple drugs, in this case, specifically cocaine and alcohol.
Data from the American Addiction Centers shows that the prevalence of concurrent cocaine and alcohol use ranges from 37% to 96%, with an estimated rate of 74% of simultaneous alcohol use among individuals who use cocaine. Furthermore, among individuals with a cocaine use disorder, nearly 60% also have an alcohol use disorder.
In addition, a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) reveals that polysubstance use disorder is prevalent among recreational drug users, including cocaine users. The study found that of intoxicated drivers, 5.6% were using cocaine and alcohol concurrently.
These statistics underscore the high prevalence of combined cocaine and alcohol use, which significantly complicates clinical treatment due to the enhanced health risks and the complex nature of treating multiple substance use disorders together.
The combination of cocaine and alcohol not only increases the risk of addiction but also has severe implications on the cardiovascular and hepatic systems. When used together, they cause the liver to form a substance known as cocaethylene, which is as potent as cocaine but has longer-lasting effects.
This concoction increases the risks of dangerous and toxic effects on the cardiovascular system, including heart attack and stroke. In fact, the risk of sudden death from heart attack or stroke due to the concurrent use of cocaine and alcohol is 18 times higher than from using cocaine alone.
Additionally, the presence of cocaethylene, a metabolite created when cocaine and alcohol are used together, significantly increases the probability of intensive care unit (ICU) admission in trauma patients, as revealed by an NCBI study.
It's evident that the combined use of cocaine and alcohol not only escalates the addiction risk but also multiplies the detrimental health effects, particularly on the cardiovascular and hepatic systems. These insights underline the urgent need for targeted interventions and comprehensive treatment strategies for individuals grappling with polysubstance use.
Given the potential dangers of cocaine and alcohol, it's crucial to address the issue promptly and seek appropriate treatment. There are several treatment options available, including medication and behavioral therapy, and a comprehensive approach is often the most effective.
Research shows that when treating addictions, medication should be the first line of treatment, usually combined with some form of behavioral therapy or counseling. Medications are also available to help treat addiction to alcohol and nicotine [3].
Despite the absence of medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating stimulant withdrawal or addiction, these medications can be used as tools to help reduce or avoid alcohol. Studies suggest that combined treatment of pharmacotherapy and counseling for concurrent cocaine and alcohol dependence can significantly reduce both cocaine and alcohol use, including a reduction in heavy drinking.
Behavioral therapies play a key role in drug addiction treatment as they help individuals modify their attitudes and behaviors related to drug use. They provide strategies for patients to handle stressful situations and various triggers that might cause another relapse. Furthermore, they can enhance the effectiveness of medications and help people remain in treatment longer.
While medications can help individuals detoxify from drugs, detoxification alone is not the same as treatment and is not sufficient to help a person recover. Detoxification without subsequent treatment generally leads to the resumption of drug use [3].
Treatment enables individuals to counteract addiction's disruptive effects on their brain and behavior, allowing them to regain control of their lives. It's important to note that relapse is expected in the chronic nature of addiction, signaling a need for treatment modification or trying another treatment when it occurs [3].
In conclusion, comprehensive treatment, combining medication with behavioral therapy, is essential for effective recovery from cocaine and alcohol addiction. Remember, the journey to recovery is a process, and seeking professional help is the first step towards overcoming the dangers of cocaine and alcohol.
[1]: https://www.healthline.com/health/cocaine-and-alcohol
[2]: https://americanaddictioncenters.org/cocaine-treatment/mixing-with-alcohol
[3]: https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/treatment-recovery
[4]: https://www.goodrx.com/well-being/substance-use/mixing-cocaine-and-alcohol
[5]: https://serenitylane.org/blog/mixing-cocaine-with-alcohol/
Here you can find articles written for educational purposes about what services we offer, drug and alcohol facts and the many different locations we service in Wisconsin. Contact us today with any questions.
June 20, 2024
Uncover the alarming teenage substance abuse statistics and the factors contributing to this hidden epidemic.
June 20, 2024
Explore groundbreaking fentanyl vaccine research offering new hope in addiction treatment.
June 20, 2024
Understand pain medication overdose symptoms and actions to take. Knowledge can save lives.
June 25, 2024
Explore how work-related stress can lead to substance abuse and its impact on productivity and health.
June 20, 2024
Unmasking the truth about fentanyl awareness campaigns. Explore the impact, criticisms, and the path forward. #FentanylAwareness
June 20, 2024
Explore fentanyl addiction treatment in Wisconsin - from recognizing symptoms to recovery options.
June 20, 2024
Unveiling addictive personality traits: Impulsivity, sensation seeking, and more. Discover the roots and find support.
June 20, 2024
Overcoming addiction and embracing a new beginning: Inspiring stories, support systems, and the path to freedom.
June 20, 2024
Navigate the stages of addiction and learn effective strategies for overcoming this challenging journey.
June 20, 2024
Decode 'dependency vs. addiction': understand the differences, consequences, and treatment approaches.
June 20, 2024
Hitting rock bottom before seeking alcohol treatment: Find hope, healing, and a new beginning. Don't face it alone.
June 20, 2024
Master how to avoid alcohol and gambling triggers, defend your recovery, and outsmart addiction today.
June 20, 2024
Unravel the truth about alcoholic parents. Discover signs, impacts, and resources to navigate your situation.
June 20, 2024
Discover if drinking alcohol can trigger heart palpitations and what current research reveals.
June 20, 2024
Alcohol-induced rashes can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. While the exact cause is not fully understood, factors such as dehydration, flushing, and allergic reactions may all play a role.
June 20, 2024
Uncover why mixing prescription drugs with alcohol is dangerous, from health risks to legal consequences.
June 20, 2024
Unmasking five codeine side effects, from common symptoms to long-term risks for your health.
June 20, 2024
Discover the safety of vaping marijuana: risks, dangers, and informed decision-making for those seeking answers. Is vaping marijuana safe?
June 20, 2024
Detect child vaping through physical symptoms, behavioral changes, and signs in appearance. Stay informed and protect your loved ones.
June 20, 2024
Discover the causes of prescription opioid abuse, its impact on health and society, and recovery options.
June 20, 2024
Unravel the complex relationship between opioids and the nervous system, understand risks and safe practices.
June 20, 2024
Explore the hidden perils of driving under the influence of prescription drugs and ways to prevent it.
June 20, 2024
Discover powerful movies about recovery from addiction that inspire, transform, and spark conversation. Triumph over addiction on the big screen!
June 20, 2024
Explore realistic films about addiction that shape perceptions and bare the stark reality.
June 20, 2024
Unveiling celebrity overdose deaths: a heartbreaking exploration of addiction and mental health in the spotlight. Seek awareness and support.
June 20, 2024
Unmask the fentanyl crisis in New Orleans. Understand its heart-wrenching impact and the fight against it.
June 20, 2024
Exposure to mold can lead to a range of physical and mental health issues, including chronic illnesses and exacerbation of pre-existing conditions like addiction.
June 20, 2024
Mixing pain killers and alcohol? Learn the risks, effects on the body, and how to seek help. Stay safe and informed!
June 20, 2024
Unveil how you can become accidentally addicted to pain pills and the steps towards prevention and recovery.
June 20, 2024
Track your sober days with a powerful sober counter. Stay motivated, accountable, and celebrate milestones on your journey.
June 20, 2024
Discover the best sober vacation destinations for relaxation and recovery. Tranquility awaits you!
June 20, 2024
Master the art of staying sober on Thanksgiving with practical strategies and non-alcoholic alternatives.
June 20, 2024
Navigate sober holidays with confidence! Discover strategies, support, and sober activities that inspire.
June 20, 2024
Excessive alcohol consumption can cause skin disorders such as rosacea, psoriasis, and premature aging.
June 20, 2024
Explore if drug use could lead to hair loss, understand its impact and discover effective treatments.
June 20, 2024
Spot the signs of self-obsession! Discover the warning signals and seek help for a healthier mindset.
June 20, 2024
Prevent drug use during pregnancy for a healthier future. Learn about risks, prevention, and support systems to ensure a safe journey.
June 20, 2024
Unveiling the risks: Discover the side effects of combining phentermine and alcohol for your wellbeing
June 20, 2024
Unveiling the impact of alcohol-related disorders: from AUD to FASD, explore the consequences and seek treatment options.
June 20, 2024
This article provides insight into how injuries can lead to prescription drug abuse and addiction, particularly with the use of opioids.
June 20, 2024
Breaking barriers: Unveiling the cost of addiction treatment. Discover payment options and overcome financial obstacles on the path to recovery.
June 20, 2024
Detect alcohol poisoning early with these warning signs. Stay informed and take immediate action to save lives.
June 20, 2024
Explore 'what are cognitive disorders?', their causes, treatment options, and breakthrough research insights.
June 20, 2024
Discover the shocking link between smoking and memory loss. Unravel the mysteries, understand the risks, and find hope for a healthier mind.
June 20, 2024
Unraveling OCD: Understand symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options to answer, "Do I have obsessive compulsive disorder?"
June 20, 2024
Discover which drugs make you more aggressive, from stimulants to prescription meds. Be informed, stay safe.
June 20, 2024
Uncover the purpose of Adderall usage and its potential benefits. From ADHD treatment to cognitive enhancement, explore its effects.
June 20, 2024
Unmask the link between Adderall and kidney disease, learn symptoms, risks, and safe usage practices.
June 20, 2024
Unravel the complex question, "Is addiction a choice or a disease?" Explore genetics, environment, and brain impacts.
June 20, 2024
People with substance use disorder often struggle to get the help they need. However, when seeking out professional help for…
June 20, 2024
Drug abuse is a serious issue that can have devastating physical, mental, social, and behavioral effects on individuals.
June 20, 2024
Explore how ACT for mental health fosters emotional resilience and aids anxiety disorders.
June 20, 2024
Explore how 'anger is a d word' impacts addiction and mental health, and ways to manage it for better well-being.
June 20, 2024
Uncover 10 inspiring ways to take care of your mental health, from social bonds to mindful eating.
June 20, 2024
Discover how to help someone with drug addiction. From understanding signs to creating a supportive environment, be their guiding light.
June 20, 2024
Discover the power of vaccinations for recovery, from COVID-19 to preventing disease outbreaks.
June 20, 2024
Recognize signs of drug use in teenagers. Stay vigilant, spot the clues, and help them find the path to recovery.
June 20, 2024
Explore the answer to "does drinking alcohol cause hair loss?" Unveil the effects of alcohol on hair health.
June 20, 2024
Discover the power of swimming in addiction recovery. Dive deep into the physical, mental, and social benefits!
June 20, 2024
Embrace the power of progress in recovery. Learn how to navigate one day at a time for resilience and growth.
June 20, 2024
Discover strategies on staying motivated in recovery, building support systems, setting goals & developing habits.
June 20, 2024
Unlock stress awareness in recovery. Learn mindful strategies to manage stress and prevent relapse.
June 20, 2024
Discover if length of stay impacts recovery in drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Knowledge is power!
June 20, 2024
Unleash the power of recovery with the 4 R's! Remove, repair, restore, and rebuild your way to optimal healing and wellness.
June 20, 2024
Unearth the need for drug addicts recovery, from understanding addiction to exploring comprehensive treatment strategies.
June 20, 2024
Discover common signs of cocaine use - from physical cues to behavioral changes, and its effects on mental health.
June 20, 2024
Unmasking the truth about cocaine: What is this notorious substance hiding? Discover the dangers, effects, and seeking help.
June 20, 2024
Explore the question: "Does crack cocaine cause violence?" Discover the research, health impacts, and social effects.
June 20, 2024
Navigate the path of seeking addiction treatment during pregnancy - protect two lives at once.
June 20, 2024
Explore the silent effects of drug & alcohol use during pregnancy, its risks, and prevention methods.
June 20, 2024
Explore if you can become addicted to your anxiety medication, its signs, and safe alternatives.
June 20, 2024
Drinking 12 beers a day can have severe and lasting impacts on your physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and financial stability.
June 20, 2024
Crack the code on how many beers to get drunk! Explore the factors and variables that determine your magic number.
June 20, 2024
Navigate the timeline for alcohol withdrawal. From early symptoms to coping strategies, discover the path to healing.
June 20, 2024
Alcohol withdrawal can be a dangerous and even life-threatening experience, especially for those who have been drinking heavily for a prolonged period of time.
June 20, 2024
Discover how to solve withdrawal symptoms effectively with medical support and long-term recovery strategies.
June 20, 2024
Discover the three common symptoms of withdrawal and explore paths to successful recovery.
June 20, 2024
Are you aware of the differences between substance use, abuse, and chemical dependency?
June 20, 2024
Demystifying the complex topic of physiological dependence - learn causes, symptoms, and recovery strategies.
June 20, 2024
Uncover how alcoholism develops over time, from early warning signs to long-term health impacts.
June 20, 2024
Unmask early signs of alcoholism in a loved one, understand its effects and learn ways to help.
June 20, 2024
Decoding 'do I have a hangover or alcohol poisoning?' Understand symptoms, risks, and when to seek help.
June 20, 2024
Explore the hidden mental effects of alcohol, from cognitive impairment to sleep disruption.
June 20, 2024
Discover how to help an alcoholic, from understanding their struggles to effective recovery strategies.
June 20, 2024
Explore the types of alcoholics, understand the genetic and environmental influences, and learn about treatments.
June 20, 2024
Explore the importance of support groups in recovery, their benefits, and tips on choosing the right one.
June 20, 2024
Discover surprising alcohol recovery statistics. Uncover the factors that drive success in the battle against addiction.
June 20, 2024
Discover the journey of recovery and thoughts of using, and strategies to build resilience in addiction recovery.
June 20, 2024
Discover 5 tips to support your loved one in recovery, nurturing health, communication, and self-care.
June 20, 2024
Discover how intensive outpatient intensity structure fosters recovery, from treatment plans to gender-specific approaches.
June 20, 2024
Explore how medication-assisted treatment (MAT) adapts to ensure recovery support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
June 20, 2024
Explore the critical substance abuse treatment plan facets, from behavioral interventions to relapse prevention.
June 20, 2024
Empower your mind with Mental Health Awareness Month! Discover the significance and initiatives that promote mental well-being.
June 20, 2024
Unravel the complex link between substance abuse and mental illness, and explore effective treatment options.
June 20, 2024
"Uncover when to see a therapist, break free from struggles and foster growth with early intervention."
June 20, 2024
Unravel 'what is mental illness?' Explore symptoms, treatments, and overcoming stigma. Knowledge is power!
June 20, 2024
Dive into the dangerous opiate abuse side effects, from health risks to brain alterations and recovery.
June 20, 2024
Discover why the risk for substance abuse is higher in military kids and explore effective interventions.
June 20, 2024
Unravel the mystery behind puzzling signs of addiction and learn to cope effectively.
June 20, 2024
Discover 5 ways you may be encouraging your teen's substance use and how to break the cycle effectively.
At Wellbrook Recovery we’re committed to helping you reclaim your life from drug and alcohol addiction with comfort and dignity. We dedicate all of our resources and expertise to help every individual in our care find peace and lasting recovery by providing them a tailored program with all levels of treatment. Our complete care encompasses all aspects of the addiction, rehabilitating their physical, mental, and emotional health.
Our individualized approach to treatment ensures that each person receives the care and support they need to achieve lasting recovery.
Let our expert staff help bring you to be your best self, with comfort, dignity, privacy and professionalism. We treat the person, not just the addiction. Wellbrook offers a recovery experience like no other in Wisconsin.
