Cocaine is a popular, illicit substance associated with intense feelings of pleasure, euphoria, and alertness. But cocaine highs are short-lived, and the withdrawal effects can be incredibly distressing. Furthermore, cocaine use is dangerous- it can lead to addiction and other health consequences.
Freebasing cocaine refers to inhaling hot vapor to use the substance. Some people believe this method is safer than other forms of use. However, freebasing is inherently dangerous. Here’s what you need to know.
Freebasing Crack Cocaine
Freebasing typically entails placing cocaine into a glass pipe and applying heat directly. At that point, the cocaine boils into a vapor. The individual then inhales it.
From a purely scientific standpoint, this method is a relatively comprehensive process. Creating freebase cocaine requires adding an ammonia-based chemical compound. This addition enables the cocaine to eliminate its sodium base. Therefore, freebase cocaine is essentially 100% pure.
Then, the cocaine must be dissolved—people who make cocaine use ether to facilitate this process. However, ether is highly flammable. If there are any remnants left in the cocaine, it can cause a fire. Subsequently, many explosions occur in clandestine labs.
Freebase cocaine enters the bloodstream quickly, and some people report that they feel the effects faster than they do when injecting it intravenously. The initial rush can happen as soon as 10-15 seconds. The high can also be highly intense. However, it only tends to last for about 5-10 minutes. Therefore, people often continue repeatedly smoking to stay high.
Some people use the terms ‘smoking crack cocaine’ and ‘freebasing’ interchangeably. However, the processes (and exact substances) may be different depending on the drug itself. Cocaine comes in powder form, whereas crack cocaine resembles crystal rocks.
What’s a Freebase Crack Pipe Look Like?
Being able to identify drug paraphernalia is essential, particularly if you suspect a loved one might be using cocaine. A pipe may indicate freebasing.
Freebase pipes are typically made out of glass. There is a circular bulb with a small opening on top (where the vapor is released). There is also a long, thin stem with an opening where the user can inhale the cocaine.
Risks of Smoking Crack Cocaine
Freebasing cocaine is extremely dangerous. For example, in the United States, nearly 40% of all drug-related emergency department visits entail cocaine. Here are some of the potential risks.
Respiratory Problems
Smoking directly impacts the lungs. As a result, smoking cocaine can increase the likelihood of respiratory issues like pneumonia, asthma, cancer, or lung disease. Some damage may be treatable or even reversible. However, in chronic or severe cases, the effects are often permanent.
Heart Issues
Cocaine is an intense stimulant. Both short-term and long-term use can cause cardiovascular problems, such as coronary artery spasms, congestive heart failure, and heart attacks. If you have a preexisting heart condition or high blood pressure, drug use may exacerbate those complications.
Infection
Sharing drug paraphernalia, such as pipes, can increase your risk of bloodborne infections, such as HIV or Hepatitis C. Smoking may contribute to cuts, burns, or open sores. It can be easy to unknowingly transfer blood to someone else (or have someone transfer it to you).
Addiction
Cocaine is highly addictive. Many people start using the drug recreationally and find it challenging to stop. They may keep using cocaine to stay awake, party, or enjoy the other effects of other drugs.
However, people develop a tolerance to cocaine, resulting in them needing to take more to achieve the desired effect. In addition, bingeing on stimulants is common when trying to avoid the “crash” that often comes during withdrawal. As a result, a vicious addiction cycle may emerge.
Overdose
Cocaine overdose can happen, no matter how you take the drug. Today, many dealers lace cocaine with cheaper drugs or ingredients.
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is fifty times stronger than heroin, is increasingly found in stimulants. Therefore, even if you think you are obtaining a high-quality product, there are no guarantees.
Final Thoughts
Freebasing cocaine- or using cocaine in any form- can be harmful and addictive. In serious cases, it may cause irreversible damage or even death.
If you or a loved one is struggling with cocaine use, seeking professional treatment can make a profound difference. Contact us today at (866) 578-7471 to get the support you need.
