If you or someone you know is in crisis right now: call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). For a possible overdose or any medical emergency, call 911. For help finding treatment, the SAMHSA National Helpline is free and open 24/7 at 1-800-662-4357.
The short answer
Stimulant addiction is treatable, but no medication is currently FDA-approved for it. The best-supported treatment is contingency management, which rewards progress, usually combined with counseling such as CBT. Recovery is possible, though relapse is common, so ongoing support matters.
Why this matters now
Deaths involving stimulants rose sharply over the past decade. CDC data show methamphetamine-involved overdose deaths climbing from 2,266 in 2011 to 34,855 in 2023, and cocaine-involved deaths from 4,681 to 29,449. Overdose deaths overall have fallen since 2022, and stimulant-involved deaths have declined too, but they remain a major concern. Many stimulants are now contaminated with fentanyl.
No approved medication, but real treatment
A 2024 panel of experts noted that the FDA has yet to approve any medication for stimulant use disorder, and that a systematic review found insufficient evidence to recommend for or against medication for cocaine or methamphetamine use disorder. Clinicians sometimes use medicines off-label, but behavioral treatment is the foundation.
What works
Contingency management
People earn small rewards, such as vouchers or prizes, for stimulant-negative tests or attending treatment. A meta-analysis found that contingency management was associated with a 22% greater likelihood of abstinence at a median of 24 weeks, with effects lasting up to a year after rewards stopped. It is considered first-line treatment for stimulant use disorder, though it remains underused. (See [Evidence-Based Therapies in Addiction Treatment: CBT, DBT and Contingency Management].)
Cognitive behavioral therapy
CBT helps you identify triggers, manage cravings and build routines.
The Matrix Model
A structured outpatient program combining CBT, family education, peer support and drug testing.
Other supports
- Exercise, which can help mood and cravings
- Peer groups, such as Crystal Meth Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous and SMART Recovery
- Treatment for co-occurring conditions, such as depression, ADHD or trauma. (See [Dual Diagnosis Treatment: When Addiction and Mental Health Overlap].)
What recovery feels like
Stopping stimulants does not usually cause dangerous physical withdrawal like alcohol or benzodiazepines. It can cause a crash: fatigue, oversleeping, low mood, anxiety and strong cravings, which can last days to weeks. Low mood can be severe. If you feel hopeless or unsafe, call or text 988.
Levels of care
Many people start with outpatient care and contingency management. Others need intensive outpatient, residential or hospital-based care, particularly with severe use, psychosis, unstable housing or other substances. (See [Inpatient vs Outpatient Rehab: Which Level of Care Is Right for You?].)
Safety points
- Fentanyl contamination. Counterfeit pills and powders can contain fentanyl. Carry naloxone, and never use alone. Naloxone does not reverse stimulants, but it can reverse a fentanyl overdose. (See [How to Get Naloxone (Narcan): Where to Find It Free and When to Use It].)
- Heart and brain risks. Stimulants can cause chest pain, irregular heartbeat, stroke and psychosis. Seek emergency care for chest pain, severe agitation or confusion.
- Mixing substances, especially with alcohol or opioids, raises risk.
If you are a family member
Look for programs with contingency management, and learn about overdose safety. Do not rely on punishment. (See [How to Talk to a Loved One About Addiction Without Pushing Them Away].)
Frequently asked questions
Is there medication for meth or cocaine addiction?
No FDA-approved medication currently. Behavioral treatment, especially contingency management, is the main approach.
What is contingency management?
A treatment that gives small rewards for meeting goals, such as negative drug tests.
Is meth withdrawal dangerous?
Usually not physically, but mood and cravings can be intense. Get support, and call 988 if you feel unsafe.
Can naloxone help with a stimulant overdose?
It does not reverse stimulants, but it can reverse fentanyl if present. Call 911.
Can people recover from stimulant addiction?
Yes, with treatment and ongoing support.
Sources
- American Psychiatric Association. Experts Discuss Options for Treating Stimulant Use Disorder. Psychiatric News, 2024.
- CDC. Drug overdose deaths data and MMWR reports. cdc.gov
- Provider Clinical Support System (PCSS). Evidence-Based Treatment for Stimulant Use Disorder, 2026.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Seek emergency care for chest pain, overdose or thoughts of suicide.