How long does cocaine stay in your system? A person might ask this question for a variety of reasons. For instance, individuals may be concerned about their cocaine use and its potential effects on their health. Additionally, if someone has been using cocaine recreationally or as part of an addiction, they may want to know how long it will take to get out of their system before taking a drug test.
If you or someone you know struggles with a cocaine use disorder, Promises Behavioral Health can provide the support needed to begin recovery. The specialists in our cocaine addiction treatment program utilize evidence-based approaches to provide individualized care. Reach out today by calling 844.875.5609 to learn more about how we can give you hope for a brighter future.
What Is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant drug made from the leaves of the coca plant native to South America. It increases dopamine levels in the brain, producing feelings of pleasure, energy, and focus. But cocaine use can quickly spiral out of control, leading to dependency and potentially fatal overdoses.
Long-term use of cocaine can have damaging effects on both physical and mental health. These include the following:
- Extreme agitation and paranoia
- Increased risk of stroke and heart attack
- Severe depression, especially once a person stops using it
Additionally, regular use of cocaine can lead to lasting changes in brain chemistry. These may affect memory formation and decision-making capabilities.
How Long Does Coke Stay in Your System?
Cocaine is quickly and easily absorbed into the bloodstream, making it one of the quickest-acting drugs available. Though its effects may only last a few hours, traces of the drug remain in the body for much longer.
So, how long does cocaine stay in your system? This drug has a half-life of approximately 60-90 minutes, meaning it takes about an hour and a half for the amount of cocaine in a person’s system to reduce to half its original concentration. As a result, this drug typically stays in a person’s body for an average of two to three days. However, this time frame can vary depending on the individual’s metabolic rate and other factors.
The length of time cocaine remains in a person’s system depends on answers to a few key questions:
- How much did they take?
- How often do they use it?
- How frequently do they engage in physical activity?
Body fat content also plays a role since cocaine binds to fatty tissues, making it more difficult for the body to process and eliminate the drug.
Over time, cocaine breaks down into metabolites eliminated through urine or sweat, but slowly. Even after several days since the last use, specific tests can still detect metabolites in a person’s system. For those who use cocaine frequently or long-term, the drug can remain in the body for several weeks or months.
Urine testing is the most common method used to detect cocaine, as it has a wide detection window and is relatively easy to administer. The drug can also be traced in saliva and blood for 12 hours to three days or longer. Traces of cocaine are detectable in sweat for weeks and hair for several months or even years.
Seek Cocaine Addiction Treatment at Promises
If you or someone you know needs help with cocaine addiction, contact the experts at Promises Behavioral Health. Our expert team offers support and treatment services to individuals and families affected by substance use disorders. With access to cutting-edge therapies and clinical treatments, we can tailor a recovery plan to your unique situation.
Promises provides individuals suffering from cocaine use disorder with the necessary tools and resources for successful long-term recovery. Learn more about cocaine addiction treatment by calling 844.875.5609 today or completing our contact form. Together, we can help you start the path to wellness and a higher quality of life.