Introduction
If you’ve heard the terms “crack,” “cocaine,” or “crack cocaine,” you might be wondering whether they are the same thing or what the difference is between crack and cocaine. Cocaine is a highly addictive drug, one that comes from the coca plant originally in South America. Both are potentially addictive, and the way in which cocaine is absorbed can directly influence other risks, such as long-term health risks and psychological risks, damage to the internal organs, nosebleeds, damage to the nasal cavity, and even the risk of contracting infectious diseases.
Crack cocaine is also derived from that same plant, so how are they different?
The table below presents the key differences:
| Crack | Cocaine | |
| Physical Form | Solid rock | White powder |
| Administration | Smoked (vapors inhaled) | Snorted, rubbed on gums, injected |
| Onset | Immediate | Slower onset for snorting |
| Duration | A few minutes | 45-60 minutes |
| Addiction Risks | Very high | High |
Let’s look at those in more detail.
Differences Between Crack and Cocaine
The biggest difference between the two is their chemical makeup. Cocaine can come in the form of a powder, whereas crack comes in the form of a solid substance.
Beyond that, the method of use or administration also differs respectively. For cocaine, because it is a powder, it can be injected, snorted, or rubbed on the gums, whereas crack, as a solid rock, is typically free-based or smoked. For this method, individuals heat The Rock and inhale the vapors.
The administration method is also important in identifying other key differences between crack and cocaine, namely, how quickly the effects take place and how long they last.
Given that crack is typically free-based, the inhalation results in an immediate rush, felt within seconds, but that feeling dissipates within a few minutes. This brings with it a much higher risk of things like addiction and overdose because the results fade so quickly that individuals are more likely to abuse crack repeatedly in order to get the same feeling for a longer amount of time.
Cocaine, on the other hand, when snorted, still takes several minutes to take effect, but the euphoria doesn’t fade for upwards of one hour. If cocaine is smoked or injected, the effects are much more intense, but they don’t last more than 20 minutes. Smoking or injecting cocaine can lead individuals to go through binge cycles where they repeatedly binge more and more cocaine to sustain that shorter high.
In any case, both crack and cocaine come with significant health impacts leading to neurological and cardiovascular damage as well as long-term damage to the kidneys, liver, and other organs. The method of administration can directly lead to risks of nose bleeds, loss of smell, or contracting infectious diseases.
Conclusion
What is the difference between crack and cocaine? The difference is the form they both take, one being a powder and the other a solid rock, their chemical makeup, method of use, and adverse health effects. However, addiction to either is possible, and getting help means turning to professionals. With East Coast Recovery, we are here to help you overcome addiction and the adverse psychological and physiological effects that either crack cocaine or powder cocaine can have on your life.
If you need help with addiction to crack or cocaine, call our admissions team at (617) 390-8349 to find a program today.
FAQ
What is Crack Cocaine?
Crack cocaine is a solid substance, one that gets its name from the crackling noises that the solid rock makes when it is heated. Crack is the street name given to this rock or solid form of cocaine that gets broken off and smoked. When the rock is heated, and the vapor is inhaled, the crack gets absorbed more readily into the bloodstream, so the effect is much faster. However, so is how quickly it wears off.
Are Both Crack and Cocaine Illegal?
Yes, in almost all cases, both crack and cocaine are considered illegal, although cocaine is a highly restricted drug that the Controlled Substances Act allows medical professionals to use as an anesthetic under very strict circumstances.
Which is Worse, Crack or Cocaine?
Both drugs can be very harmful and lead to addiction, though administration via smoking or injecting increases the risk of addiction. As such, through the method of administration alone, crack is potentially more addictive than powdered cocaine, especially given the higher risk of binging and the shorter duration of euphoria.
Can You Get Addicted to Cocaine?
Yes, individuals can very quickly develop an addiction to cocaine. Cocaine and crack cocaine both come with a risk of addiction. When individuals start to experience withdrawal symptoms if they cut back or stop using, develop a tolerance, and continue to use despite the issues they know it causes. If you or someone close to you is in need of help, reach out to our team to start treatment today.
What Happens During Cocaine or Crack Withdrawal?
If you are struggling with addiction, the first step in recovery is the detox process. During detox, you will experience different withdrawal symptoms, both physical and psychological. Withdrawal from stimulants like crack or cocaine can cause severe physiological symptoms like vivid or unpleasant dreams, sleep disturbances, paranoia, and slowed thinking or movements. However, with the right type of detox program and ongoing outpatient support, recovery is possible.
What is the Best Treatment for Crack or Cocaine Addiction?
The best treatment for addiction to any substance is based on needs, situation, and health, but will involve some form of therapy. For many people, outpatient programs that include behavioral therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational therapies, and other evidence-based practices provide the best flexibility. These programs can take the form of half-day or full-day commitments, making it possible to still go to work, school, take care of elderly family members or children, or otherwise participate in regular daily obligations while getting help.
