Crack

The Origins of Crack Cocaine

Crack cocaine emerged in the mid-1980s as a smokable form of cocaine. It was developed by processing powdered cocaine hydrochloride with baking soda or ammonia and water, then heating the mixture to remove the hydrochloride. The result is a hard, rock-like substance that can be smoked.

Crack was widely distributed due to its low cost, rapid high, and ease of use, quickly becoming one of the most devastating drugs in urban communities, especially in the United States.

A VICIOUS CYCLE

Cocaine was originally promoted in the late 1800s as a medicinal stimulant and even found in early versions of Coca-Cola. Its addictive nature quickly became apparent.

As powdered cocaine became associated with wealth and party culture, crack surfaced as a cheap, smokable alternative targeting poorer communities. Crack delivers an intense, short-lived high that causes extreme psychological dependency.

This cycle of “instant high → instant crash → immediate craving” has made crack one of the most psychologically addictive substances known today.

What Does Crack Look Like?

Crack cocaine appears as small, hard, off-white or yellowish “rocks”. These rocks vary in size and shape. The name "crack" comes from the crackling sound it makes when heated and smoked.

It is typically smoked in a glass pipe or homemade device. Smoking crack produces an immediate, intense euphoric high that lasts only 5–10 minutes—causing users to smoke repeatedly and compulsively.

The drug is often mixed with other substances, making its potency and risks unpredictable. Like street heroin, users never truly know what they're ingesting.

The Destructive Effects of Crack Cocaine

IMMEDIATE HARM

When smoked, crack produces a powerful rush of euphoria, usually followed by:

• Increased energy

• Heightened alertness

• Loss of appetite

• Hyperstimulation

• Anxiety or panic attacks

• Aggressive or erratic behavior

As the effects wear off, users often crash into intense depression, fatigue, and irritability, fueling immediate cravings for more.

SHORT-TERM EFFECTS

• Intense, short-lived high

• Hyperactivity and restlessness

• Paranoia

• Elevated heart rate and blood pressure

• Increased body temperature

• Insomnia

• Severe anxiety or panic attacks

• Aggressive or violent behavior

• Risk of overdose, seizures, or heart attack

  
  

LONG-TERM EFFECTS

Prolonged use of crack cocaine can severely damage the brain and body:

• Permanent damage to blood vessels of the heart and brain

• High risk of stroke and cardiac arrest

• Respiratory problems (chronic coughing, lung damage)

• Severe depression and suicidal thoughts

• Hallucinations (auditory and visual)

• Paranoia, psychosis, and schizophrenia-like symptoms

• Malnutrition and weight loss

• Decayed teeth (“crack mouth”)

• Risk of HIV, hepatitis, and other infections from risky behaviors

• Financial ruin, broken relationships, homelessness

  
  

Behavioral Changes

• Sudden aggression or paranoia

• Hyperactive or manic behavior

• Risky or illegal actions

• Emotional outbursts or mood swings

• Isolation from family and friends

• Neglect of responsibilities (work, school, children)

  
  

Physical Changes

• Dilated pupils

• Sudden weight loss

• Burns on lips or fingers from pipes

• Frequent nosebleeds (if snorted)

• Insomnia and fatigue

• Muscle twitches or tremors

• Poor hygiene or appearance

  
  

Social Changes

• Loss of interest in relationships or hobbies

• Involvement in crime or legal trouble

• Financial issues or theft to support habit

• Unstable or dangerous living conditions

• Withdrawal from supportive social networks

• Continued use despite serious consequences