Cocaine-induced Depressive Disorder

Cocaine-induced depressive disorder occurs when cocaine use precipitates depressive symptoms such as low mood, anhedonia, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Etiology involves dysregulation of dopaminergic, serotonergic, and noradrenergic systems. Clinically, patients present with depressive affect temporally linked to cocaine use, often causing significant social and occupational impairment. Diagnosis requires establishing a temporal relationship and excluding primary depressive disorders. Management focuses on cessation of cocaine, psychoeducation, psychotherapy, and pharmacologic interventions as indicated. Prognosis improves with sustained abstinence and early intervention.