Freebasing is an extremely dangerous way of taking drugs because it converts them to more potent forms. The most common drug that people freebase is cocaine, although the same can be done with nicotine, morphine, heroin, and others
When people freebase cocaine and other drugs, the body absorbs the substance more quickly. The euphoric high comes on quickly, in seconds. The effects usually last about five to ten minutes. This may lead to increased use in order to maintain the euphoric sensation, which can create dependence and addiction or overdose more quickly than other methods of ingesting drugs.
Studies show that freebasing can lead to more serious health risks compared to other forms of substance use.[1] This includes heart attacks and severe respiratory issues, primarily due to how the drug hits the bloodstream and impacts the body.
What is Freebasing?
Freebasing refers to the process of turning a substance, such as cocaine, into a different form. Many people freebase cocaine by turning it into a vapor. By changing its structure to a vapor, it becomes a more potent drug, with even more serious consequences.
What is the Process of Freebasing a Drug?
When people freebase cocaine, they use a chemical solvent, such as ammonia or ether, to eliminate its hydrochloride salt element. This is done by mixing ammonia with a solution of cocaine and water, producing white or yellow crystal rocks. The process turns powdered cocaine into pure cocaine, a more potent version of the drug. [2]
Freebasing a drug gives it a lower melting point, making it easier to smoke. Many people smoke cocaine in this form by typically using a small glass pipe and a piece of clean, heavy copper. They use the copper to melt and boil the cocaine into a vapor form that can be inhaled.
How is It Different From Smoking or Snorting Drugs?
Freebasing is different from snorting cocaine or other drugs. The difference is in the form it takes, and that it must first be heated because drugs like cocaine are in their purest form when freebasing. The physical and neurological impact is faster and greater than with other methods of taking. The intense high doesn’t last as long as when drugs are snorted.
The intense euphoria of freebasing is one of the reasons why it’s so dangerous. It creates a craving for more of the drug, which can quickly lead to dependence and a greater risk of developing a substance misuse disorder. Freebasing drugs is hazardous, and in some cases, lethal.
What Does Freebasing Mean? Effects Explained
Since freebasing a drug breaks it down to a more pure form, the impact it has on the body is greater. l. However, these feelings typically only last 5-10 minutes. Once it’s over, the desire to return to that state intensifies, which can lead to addiction or overdose.
Short-Term Effects
When people repeatedly freebase cocaine, they can begin to feel paranoid, anxious, and agitated. They may also experience: [3]
- Heart rate increase
- Surge in blood pressure
- Elevated body temperature
Long-Term Effects
Long-term freebasing and cocaine use can lead to more harmful and serious effects, such as: [4]
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Increased seizures linked to epilepsy
- HIV/AIDs
- Hepatitis C
- Respiratory complications
It should be noted that these effects can occur with a single, first-time use.
Cocaine use over a long period of time can also have an adverse effect on the brain. [5] Cocaine alters the metabolism of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain.
When people freebase, they also increase their chance of potential burns and accidents related to heating sources. Understanding the short and long-term effects of freebasing cocaine and other drugs highlights its dangers and how it can severely impact the body.
Overdosing from Freebasing
Freebasing significantly increases the risk of overdose because of how rapidly it reaches the bloodstream and the brain. [6] This effect can cloud one’s judgment and lead people to take more of the substance than they originally intended, increasing the risk of overdose. The intensity of the drug in its freebase form also puts a strain on the heart, which can elevate the risk of sudden cardiac events.
What are the Risks of Freebasing?
Freebasing drugs, like cocaine, leads to chemical and toxic exposure. Because the process typically involves adding substances to the drugs. The drug may also contain substances that the drug dealer added to it before selling it. This gives off impurities that can lead to lung damage and other respiratory issues.
Mental health risks are also associated with freebasing. It can lead to paranoia and even temporary psychosis in some people. There is also potential for hallucinations and delusions, especially with heavy or chronic cocaine use.
Besides physical and mental health risks, freebasing cocaine can affect other parts of your life. When substance use is part of daily or regular routines, it can lead to increased risky behaviors like unprotected sex and criminal activity. These actions may be followed later by legal consequences such as arrest, fines, and imprisonment.
Maintaining a drug habit can also have social consequences. Many who struggle with substance abuse withdraw from their relationships so they can maintain their habit. They may not be able to go to work because of the impact of their substance use. Some may also find themselves in financial trouble because they are using all of their money to buy drugs.
Signs That Someone May Be Freebasing Cocaine
There are many red flags that indicate that someone is using, possibly freebasing cocaine. Here’s what to look for: [7]
- Weight loss
- Dilated pupils
- Extreme mood swings
- Paranoid behavior
- Anxiety
- Money problems
- Bursts of energy
- Secretive behavior
- Trouble sleeping
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Trouble breathing
- Failure to follow through with responsibilities at home & at work
Finding drug paraphernalia, such as glass pipes, is also an indicator that someone is freebasing cocaine.
Withdrawal Symptoms of Cocaine Use
Since cocaine highs don’t last long, those who frequently use it will want it more. When they don’t get it or stop suddenly, they can experience these withdrawal symptoms: [8]
- Fatigue
- Muscle tremors
- Severe headache
- Slowed or disoriented thinking
- Depression
These withdrawal symptoms can be mild to severe, depending on the addiction.
What Treatment Options are Available for Cocaine Abuse?
Seeking treatment for cocaine abuse can include a variety of methods. Some people require detox. Treatment also typically includes cognitive behavioral therapy. [9] This type of therapy is a type of talk therapy that can help people in treatment work through their addiction and set goals.
When you or a loved one decides to seek treatment for a cocaine addiction, your healthcare provider will assess you to develop a customized treatment plan.
Learn More About The Dangers of Substance Use & Addiction Treatment
If you suspect a loved one is abusing drugs or freebasing, help is available. Coming to terms with a substance use disorder and seeking help from professional addiction treatment programs are the first steps of the healing process.
