What is the Rock Drug?

What is the Rock Drug?

Also known by street names such as “candy, nuggets” and “grit,” the rock drug is another name for what is widely referred to as crack cocaine. In this article, we explore some of the most commonly asked questions about the rock drug.

What is the Rock Drug?

Crack cocaine is recognisable by its off-white colour and hard, crystal-like appearance. Its name is derived from the crackling sound it makes when heated. Unlike its powdered form- cocaine, crack is smoked rather than snorted. As a result, the effects are instant and short-lived, with a high that typically lasts between 5 and 10 minutes. The rock drug is classified as a stimulant or “upper,” which relates to the fact that it causes a high characterised by an extreme energy boost, increased alertness and an elevated mood. As a stimulant, crack affects the central nervous system by causing an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain. The rock drug is widely known for its highly addictive nature and the profoundly negative effects it has on long-term users.

How Does the Rock Drug Differ from Cocaine?

The rock drug is a derivative of cocaine. It is produced by combining cocaine with water and baking soda to create a mixture that eventually forms into solid crystals. Because of its formulation and the fact that it is smoked rather than snorted, crack is far more potent than cocaine. Its side effects are therefore more far-reaching and devastating. Cocaine has a high street value, while crack is sold cheaply and is therefore easier to acquire. Unfortunately, the substances that are often used to produce crack include toxic substances like rat poison and even arsenic. For those addicted to crack cocaine, there are simply no guarantees as to what is being taken into the body and what its effects will be.

What are the Long-term Effects of the Crack Cocaine Abuse?

• Lung disease: Crack cocaine users may experience extreme respiratory problems including shortness of breath and even internal bleeding.
• Extreme Weight Loss: Due to the impact that the rock drug has on the body, loss of appetite is a common side effect, which in the long term, can lead to malnutrition and rapid weight loss.
• Psychosis: The rock drug causes extreme disruptions in the way that the brain processes chemicals. As a result, long-term use can cause neurological deterioration, which may lead to depression and other mental health issues that relate to chemical imbalances in the brain.
• Death: As much as it may be a hard reality to face, the use of the rock drug, particularly in tandem with heroine (a drug habit called “speedballing”), can be fatal.

If you or a loved one is in search of help for drug addiction, know that help is readily available. Contact us for a free consultation and we’ll support you in your journey.

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