Cocaine


 * Cocaine is an alkaloid from the leaves of the bush ``Erythroxylon coca''
 * Indians – Chew on leaves
 * Isolated cocaine:
 * salt-like aspect – sniffed, i.v. application
 *  as a base – inhalation, smoking (crack)

Pharmacology

 * Levorotatory isomer – pharmacologically active
 * Cocaine – agonist of catecholamines (dopamine….)
 * Has stimulating effects
 * Acts as an anesthetic (blocks the flow of sodium in the nerves)
 * In case of overdose, cardiac arrhythmias occur and subsequently possible death

Abuse

 * Sniff, i.v., i.v. also with heroin ("stereo")
 * Smoking crack - immediate availability in the blood

Acute abuse

 * Usual doses: 10–120 mg
 * Duration of effect: 1–2 hours
 * Symptoms:
 * - Euphoria – stimulation, followed by depression
 * - Hyperactivity, irritability, aggressiveness
 * - Initial improvement in mood, confidence, sense of superiority ("EGO")
 * - Sexual excitement
 * - Anorexia

Chronic abuse

 * Psychosis, hallucinations with paranoid delusions
 * Loss of appetite, weight loss
 * Tissue damage at application sites
 * Severe psychological dependence occurs
 * Development of tolerance is not significant

Related Articles

 * Substance abuse • Drug addiction and illegal production and possession of narcotics • Opioid abuse
 * Amphetamines • Cocaine • Cannabinoids • Hallucinogens • LSD • Psychodrugs • Barbiturates • Benzodiazepines • [ [Ethanol]]
 * Cannabinoid use disorders • Opioid use disorders