Snorting Crack | Can You Snort Crack?

According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), crack cocaine is a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has a high potential for abuse. Cocaine comes from the coca plant and is available in a number of forms, particularly powder form.

However, crack cocaine is not powdered cocaine, it is the solid form of the drug that has been mixed with baking soda and water and boiled until it hardens. While snorting crack is not as common as snorting the powder form of cocaine, insufflation can occur.

Those snorting this addictive drug are participating in a serious form of cocaine abuse. Snorting crack cocaine may lead to life-threatening side effects and dangers, including drug addiction.

Effects Of Snorting Crack

The side effects of crack cocaine use can range in severity. However, those snorting the substance will likely feel the rush or high of crack cocaine intensely due to how quickly the drug enters the bloodstream. 

The instant release of dopamine with crack cocaine use can cause the side effects one experiences to feel heightened or intense.

Short-Term Side Effects

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), there are a number of short-term side effects associated with cocaine use, including:

• feelings for euphoria
• mental alertness
• paranoia
• irritability
• dilated pupils
• loss of appetite
• hypersensitivity
• feeling more energetic

Even with first time use, crack cocaine can cause life-threatening health problems, or even sudden death. Depending on how the drug was manufactured, the route of administration, and any underlying health conditions, partaking in cocaine abuse only once can have lasting negative effects.

Long-Term Side Effects

Some of the long-term side effects of snorting crack may consist of:

• tremors
• nausea
• psychosis or other mental health problems
• vomiting
• constricted blood vessels
• restlessness
• increase in body temperature

Withdrawal Symptoms

A person experiencing withdrawal symptoms of crack cocaine when they stop use may suffer from:

• increase in appetite
• fatigue
• intense cravings for the drug
• sleeping difficulties
• depression
• mood swings
• lack of concentration
• headaches

Dangers Of Snorting Crack

Snorting crack cocaine is a form of substance abuse which can lead to severe health issues and dangers.

Damage To The Nose

Snorting this strong stimulant drug for long periods of time can lead to several health concerns. For instance, snorting crack can irritate the nasal passageways, causing tears and fissures which can result in bacterial infections.

A deviated septum can also occur, as well as recurring nosebleeds and a chronic runny nose. Those abusing cocaine long-term may experience difficulty breathing through the nostrils due to the damage caused by consistent crack cocaine abuse.

Other Methods Of Administration

Those who develop a crack addiction may turn to other methods instead of snorting. Instead of snorting the drug, a person can smoke or inject the drug. Smoking crack can lead to breathing difficulties, lung damage, and a persistent cough.

A person injecting the drug into a vein has a risk of developing hepatitis, HIV, or other forms of disease if contaminated needles are used.

Injecting the drug directly into a vein can also create blood clots, bacterial infections, and abscesses on the skin.

Crack Overdose

A crack cocaine overdose is serious and can result in sudden death. In fact, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), cocaine is involved in 1 in 5 overdose deaths.

Cardiovascular problems are a major factor in overdose deaths. Cocaine abuse can lead to elevations in blood pressure and heart rate as well as a potential heart attack.

Some of the symptoms of an overdose may include:

• stroke
• seizure
• breathing problems
• chest pain
• hallucinations
• agitation
• coma

If you suspect a loved one is experiencing an overdose, seek medical attention and contact 911 right away. 

Crack Addiction Treatment

For those of you struggling with crack cocaine addiction or another substance use disorder, consider Ohio Recovery Center. At our treatment center, we provide a number of treatment options to help you overcome drug use, including:

• medical detox
• inpatient treatment programs
• evidence-based practices like behavioral therapy
• support groups and group therapy

For more information, please contact us today.