Diagnosis and Clinical Implications of Cocaine Use Disorder

Advance Your Competence in Substance Use Disorder Management

This course provides a structured, clinically relevant overview of CUD, emphasizing accurate diagnosis based on DSM-5 criteria, recognition of medical and neuropsychiatric complications, and integration of evidence-based treatment strategies. Participants will examine the physiological effects of cocaine, its impact on multiple organ systems, and co-occurring disorders that frequently complicate care. Special attention is given to acute intoxication management, withdrawal syndromes, and referral pathways for long-term treatment and support.

By enrolling in this course, you will earn 2 Continuing Education (CE) Credit Hours, automatically reported to CE Broker, while enhancing their diagnostic acumen and ability to navigate the multifaceted needs of patients with cocaine use disorder.

This course equips healthcare professionals with practical tools and clinical insight to better identify, assess, and manage CUD. Topics include:

• Pathophysiology of Cocaine Use: Understanding the neurochemical and cardiovascular effects of cocaine, including dopaminergic dysregulation and vasoconstrictive complications.
• DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for CUD: Identifying hallmark behavioral patterns, tolerance, withdrawal, and functional impairments associated with chronic use.
• Clinical Presentation and Complications: Evaluation of acute and chronic complications such as myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, seizures, psychosis, and cerebrovascular accidents.
• Medical Management and Acute Care: Best practices for stabilizing patients in acute intoxication, overdose scenarios, and withdrawal states.
• Long-Term Treatment Strategies: Review of psychosocial interventions, contingency management, and pharmacologic adjuncts under investigation.
• Co-Occurring Psychiatric Conditions: Navigating dual diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder in the context of CUD.
• Ethical and Legal Considerations: Addressing stigma, confidentiality, and patient rights in addiction care.

Completion Requirements:

To receive full CE credit, participants must: 

• Register for the course.
• Review the course materials in their entirety.
• Complete the post-test with a score of 70% or higher.
• Submit a course evaluation survey.

Additional course features may include clinical case discussions or interactive assessments to reinforce learning.

Important Disclosures:

• Conflict of Interest: The authors, presenters, and planners disclose no relevant financial or personal conflicts of interest.
• Commercial Support: This educational activity is free of commercial sponsorship or industry funding.
• Non-Endorsement: Accreditation does not imply endorsement of any commercial products or services mentioned in the course.
• Off-Label Use: This course does not include discussion of unapproved or off-label use of medical products.