Substance Guide

Cocaine Addiction Treatment & Costs

Comprehensive information on cocaine use disorder, treatment options, withdrawal risks, and what you can expect to pay for care.

SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-4357

Overview

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug derived from coca leaves that produces short-lived euphoria, increased energy, and feelings of invincibility. It can be snorted, smoked (as crack cocaine), or injected. Cocaine addiction develops quickly due to its intense but short-lived high, driving users to binge repeatedly. Long-term cocaine use damages the heart, lungs, brain, and nasal passages, and can cause fatal cardiac events.

Signs of Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine addiction can develop quickly. Recognizing these signs early improves treatment outcomes:

Frequent nosebleeds or runny nose
Dilated pupils
Unusual bursts of energy and confidence
Financial problems
Secretive behavior
White powder residue on surfaces
Mood swings from euphoria to depression
Weight loss and decreased appetite

Withdrawal Risks

Cocaine withdrawal is not typically physically dangerous but involves intense psychological symptoms including depression, fatigue, increased appetite, vivid nightmares, slowed thinking, and powerful cravings. The psychological withdrawal can be severe enough to trigger suicidal thoughts, making professional support important.

Treatment Approaches

Cocaine addiction treatment focuses on behavioral therapies. There are currently no FDA-approved medications specifically for cocaine use disorder:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (most effective)
Contingency management and motivational incentives
Inpatient rehabilitation for severe addiction
Intensive outpatient programs
Community reinforcement approach
12-step programs (NA/CA)
Treatment of co-occurring depression and anxiety

Treatment Details at a Glance

Detox Duration

Crash: 1–3 days. Withdrawal: 1–4 weeks. Cravings may persist for months

Relapse Rate

Relapse rate is approximately 40–60%

Cost of Treatment

Inpatient rehab: $6,000–$30,000 for 30 days. Outpatient: $1,000–$10,000 for 3 months. IOP: $3,000–$12,000 for 3 months.

Cost Breakdown

Inpatient rehab: $6,000–$30,000 for 30 days. Outpatient: $1,000–$10,000 for 3 months. IOP: $3,000–$12,000 for 3 months.

Because there are no medication options for cocaine addiction, treatment relies heavily on therapy and counseling. This can make outpatient programs a cost-effective choice for those with strong social support. Insurance may cover a significant portion of treatment costs.

Ready to Get Help?

The SAMHSA National Helpline provides free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referrals and information for individuals and families facing cocaine addiction.

Call 1-800-662-4357

Free & Confidential — 24/7/365 — English & Español

Explore Treatment Types

Learn more about the different levels of care available for cocaine addiction treatment: