Crack and cannabis are two substances that are often compared and contrasted for their vastly different reputations and uses. While cannabis has gained increasing acceptance in many parts of the world for its medicinal and recreational benefits, crack is widely recognized as a highly addictive and dangerous drug.
Despite their differences, there are also some surprising similarities between these two substances. In this article, we will explore the differences and similarities between crack and cannabis, their respective side effects, and the potential risks associated with their use.
Whether you are a seasoned cannabis user or concerned about someone using crack, this comprehensive overview will provide you with a better understanding of these two substances and their effects on the mind and body.
What is Crack?
Crack, also known as crack cocaine, is a highly addictive stimulant drug that is derived from the coca plant. It is a freebase form of cocaine that is typically smoked, and it produces a short-lived, intense high that is characterized by feelings of euphoria, heightened energy, and increased sociability.
Chemical Composition of Crack
The chemical composition of crack is similar to that of cocaine, as both drugs are derived from the coca plant and contain the same active ingredient, which is cocaine hydrochloride. However, the process of converting cocaine hydrochloride into crack involves the use of baking soda or another alkaline substance, which separates the cocaine base from the hydrochloride, resulting in a more potent and concentrated form of the drug.
What is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant that has been used by humans for thousands of years for a variety of purposes, including medicinal, recreational, and spiritual. It is native to Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent and has been cultivated and used by humans for its medicinal properties and psychoactive effects for centuries.
THC in cannabis is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis and is responsible for the euphoric and psychoactive effects of the drug. CBD, on the other hand, does not produce psychoactive effects but has been shown to have potential therapeutic properties.
Chemical Composition of Cannabis
The chemical composition of cannabis is complex and includes hundreds of different compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. The most well-known and studied cannabinoids in cannabis are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
Crack vs. Cannabis: Fact Sheet
| Crack | Cannabis | |
| Generic Name | Crack | Hash |
| Drug Type | Recreational | Psychoactive |
| Active Ingredients | benzoylecgonine and sodium bicarbonate | THC (C21H30O2) and CBD (C21H30O2) |
| Used as treatment for: | None | Side effects of chemotherapy and AIDA |
| Available Form(s) | Crystals, powder, and liquid | Dried Flowers Extract |
| Is it a controlled substance? | Yes, Schedule II drug | Yes, Schedule I |
| Legal Status | Illegal | Illegal |
| Risk of Withdrawal Effects | Yes | Yes |
| Risk of Addiction | Yes | Low But Yes |
Cannabis Dosage and Side Effects:
Cannabis dosage and side effects can vary depending on the individual, the method of consumption, and the potency of the cannabis product. Smoking or inhaling cannabis typically produces faster effects, while ingesting cannabis through edibles or tinctures can produce a slower onset and longer-lasting effects.
For smoking or vaporizing cannabis, a typical dose is 1-3 inhalations. For edibles, a dose can range from 5-10 milligrams of THC, with effects that can last for several hours. Dosage can also affect the experience, with higher doses of THC resulting in more intense psychoactive effects.
Some of the common side effects of cannabis use can include dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, impaired coordination, and short-term memory impairment. These effects are typically mild and temporary, but higher doses or chronic use can lead to more severe side effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis
It’s important to note that the effects and side effects of cannabis can vary widely depending on the individual’s tolerance and sensitivity to the drug, as well as other factors such as pre-existing medical conditions and other medications being taken. It’s also important to use cannabis responsibly and in accordance with local laws and regulations.
Crack Dosage and Side Effects:
Crack dosage and side effects can vary widely depending on the individual, the method of consumption, and the potency of the drug. Smoking or inhaling crack typically produces faster and more intense effects than other forms of cocaine, which can increase the risk of overdose and other adverse reactions.
Crack users may also be at a higher risk of developing addiction due to the highly addictive nature of the drug. It is also important that crack is an illicit substance that is only used for recreational purpose so there is no recommended dosage for it.
Some of the common side effects of crack use can include increased heart rate, high blood pressure, hyperthermia, agitation, and anxiety. These effects are typically intense and short-lived, but higher doses or chronic use can lead to more severe side effects, such as seizures, stroke, and heart attack.
It’s important to note that the effects and side effects of crack can vary widely depending on the individual’s tolerance and sensitivity to the drug, as well as other factors such as pre-existing medical conditions and other medications being taken.
It’s also important to use crack responsibly and in accordance with local laws and regulations. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction to crack or other drugs, seeking professional help from a healthcare provider or addiction treatment specialist is recommended.
Cannabis vs. Crack: Can You Withdrawal for Either?
Yes one will most probably feel withdrawal symptoms for both crack and cannabis after developing a dependence.
Withdrawal from cannabis, also known as marijuana or weed, may include symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, insomnia, loss of appetite, and physical discomfort. These symptoms typically begin within one to two days after the last use and can last for up to two weeks or longer.
Withdrawal from crack cocaine can be more severe and intense, with symptoms including intense cravings, fatigue, depression, anxiety, agitation, restlessness, muscle aches, and tremors. The onset of these symptoms may occur within a few hours after the last use and can last for several weeks or longer.
It’s important to note that while getting off cannabis may be uncomfortable, it is not typically life-threatening. However, withdrawal from crack cocaine can be dangerous, and in some cases, it may require medical supervision to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
If you or someone you know is experiencing withdrawal symptoms from cannabis or crack cocaine, it’s important to seek help from a medical professional or addiction specialist who can provide guidance and support throughout the withdrawal process.
Crack vs Cannabis: Prevalence in the United States
According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), an estimated 4.4 million people aged 12 or older in the United States were current (past-month) marijuana users.
This represents 1.6% of the total population aged 12 or older. In addition, the survey found that approximately 8.2 million people aged 12 or older had used marijuana in the past year, and 19.1 million people aged 12 or older had used marijuana in their lifetime.
On the other hand, crack cocaine use is less prevalent in the United States compared to marijuana. According to the same NSDUH survey, an estimated 774,000 people aged 12 or older were current (past-month) crack cocaine users.
This represents 0.3% of the total population aged 12 or older. In addition, the survey found that approximately 1.6 million people aged 12 or older had used crack cocaine in the past year, and 7.1 million people aged 12 or older had used crack cocaine in their lifetime.
It’s important to note that the legalization of cannabis in some states may impact the reported prevalence of marijuana use.
Bottom Line: Crack versus Cannabis
The bottom line is that both crack cocaine and cannabis can lead to withdrawal symptoms when someone stops using them after developing a dependence. However, withdrawal from crack cocaine can be more severe and intense, potentially requiring medical supervision to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Withdrawal from cannabis is typically less severe, but can still be uncomfortable and last for up to two weeks or longer. It’s important to seek help from a medical professional or addiction specialist if you or someone you know is experiencing withdrawal symptoms from either substance.
FAQs on Cannabis and Crack
Crack vs Cannabis: Which is more addictive?
Crack cocaine is generally considered more addictive than cannabis due to its highly addictive nature and rapid onset of effects. The intense and immediate euphoria that comes with smoking crack cocaine can lead to compulsive drug-seeking behavior and dependence in a relatively short period of time.
Is it safe to mix cannabis with Ketamine?
It is not safe to mix cannabis with ketamine or any other substance without consulting a healthcare professional. Cannabis can increase the sedative effects of ketamine and may increase the risk of adverse effects such as respiratory depression, confusion, and impaired motor function. Mixing substances can also increase the risk of overdose and other serious health complications.
What are the signs of crack addiction?
The signs of crack addiction can vary, but some common indicators include increased drug-seeking behavior, financial problems, neglect of personal responsibilities, changes in mood or behavior, and physical symptoms such as dilated pupils, weight loss, and dental problems.
