Crocodile, when injected, produces an immediate high but at a high cost. Crocodile drug gets its name from the unsightly appearance at the injection site, which turns green and scaly. The injection site is often infected and can result in dead tissue and infected ulcers that often need antibiotics, debridement, and sometimes even surgery. Other side effects associated with crocodile use include:
- Soft-tissue infections (deeper than skin infections)
- Muscle and bone infections (deeper than soft tissue infections)
- Organ damage
- Inflammation of the veins
- Skin ulceration
- Gangrene
- Bloodborne illnesses such as HIV and Hepatitis C due to needle sharing
- Blood clots
- Insomnia
- Memory loss
- Speech problems
- Death
Is crocodile addictive?
Since crocodile is technically an opioid (derived from codeine), it has a high addiction potential as it quickly results in a euphoric high once it enters the bloodstream. Like other opioids, crocodile binds to opioid receptors in the brain and, as a result, triggers the release of dopamine. This brain hormone is a significant player in the positive reward system. When dopamine is released, a euphoric high is often experienced throughout the body. When the individual continues to use crocodile or another opioid over time, the desire to produce this opioid-like effect becomes stronger. With each use, the body and brain become used to crocodile effects to the point that the body may experience withdrawal symptoms when this drug is discontinued. This is known as dependency. Addiction can occur when the brain and body become re-wired over time to the extent that the individual continues to use crocodile despite the negative consequences associated with this drug use. Addiction is a chronic medical condition that includes strong urges and cravings, the inability to stop using despite the brain’s negative impacts, and long-lasting changes.
Is there treatment for crocodile addiction?
Treatment for crocodile addiction and other opioid addictions includes a combination of medication and behavioral therapy approaches. The first step in the treatment process is acute detox, which helps the individual withdrawal from crocodile in a safe and comfortable setting under medical supervision. Medications are often administered to ease the withdrawal effects and prevent urges and cravings to reduce relapse potential. Once the individual completes the initial detox phase, long-term treatment is often recommended to learn the healthy coping skills needed for a successful lifelong recovery. Long-term medications and behavioral therapy techniques are often used during this treatment phase.
Seeking help for crocodile addiction with AKUA Mind and Body
AKUA Mind and Body is a full-service treatment center that provides residential treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, and virtual treatment. AKUA Mind and Body offers compassionate, evidence-based treatment to all individuals struggling with a mental health disorder, substance use disorder, alcohol use disorder, or a co-occurring disorder. We combine evidence-based medications and psychotherapy approaches with holistic treatments such as meditation, yoga, and equine therapy, as we want to treat the mind, body, and spirit.
Our clinical staff and ancillary treatment teams take great pride in the care that we provide to our clients and their families. From intake to discharge, we believe in treating the client as an individual and not just treating the disorder. As a result, we provide individualized treatment plans for every client. We offer our treatment services across many locations in California, including Orange County, Newport Beach, San Diego, and Sacrament
