Cocaine - Consequences

Consequences

When cocaine use progresses to a point of dependence, it can be devastating. At this stage, drug seeking often becomes the user's first priority. Suddenly, values such as love of family and friends and commitment to work can take second place to finding, buying, and using cocaine. "Cocaine addiction almost always interferes with social and economic functioning," stated Weil and Rosen. Addicts may end up spending "phenomenal amounts of money on their habits ($15,000 a year and more)," the authors explained. "They become paranoid, isolated, and depressed, unable to stop thinking about their next dose."

Habitual users often find themselves trapped in a web of deception and criminal behavior. Users desperate for more drugs may turn to robbery or prostitution in order to finance their habit. NIDA Notes stated that "cocaine use in 'crack' exchanges also contribute[s] to transmission of HIV/AIDS." Conviction of an illegal drug offense can trigger minimum mandatory prison sentences. Also, students convicted of cocaine possession can be disqualified from obtaining federal college grants and loans. In addition, NIDA-funded research shows that drug abusers cost employers about twice as much in medical and workers' compensation claims than drug-free workers. As a result, more and more businesses are requiring drug screening for employees.