Substances | Cocaine

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Synonyms

Coke, Blow, Snow, Skiing, ❄️, ⛷️

Class

Stimulant

Mechanism of action

Cocaine produces its effects by blocking the receptors responsible for the reuptake of the neurotransmitter dopamine, thus increasing the level of dopamine in the synaptic cleft. The increase in dopamine primarily in the limbic system, the area of the brain that deals with pleasure and motivation, causes the characteristic effects. [1]

Medical use

As a cousin of lidocaine, cocaine can be used in medical settings as a topical anesthetic with vasoconstricting properties [2]. There are currently no therapeutic indications for cocaine that is systemically absorbed.

Administration routes

Oral
Intranasally “Snorting or Bump”
Intravenous (IV)

Effect

"Upper

Creates a euphoric sensation, increases alertness, provides a sense of well-being, reduces need for sleep and rest

Safety Strategies

Caution When Using Ketamine and Cocaine in Combination

Coming soon..

Caution with Hypertensive or Cardiac History

Coming soon..

HIV Transmission Via Nasal Instrument Sharing

Coming soon..

Cocaine and Levamisole

Coming soon..

A Note on Cocaine versus Crack Cocaine or Freebase Cocaine

Coming soon..

Citations & Reading

[1] Nestler EJ. The neurobiology of cocaine addiction. Sci Pract Perspect. 2005;3(1):4-10.
[2] Middleton RM, Kirkpatrick MB. Clinical Use of Cocaine. Drug Safety. 1993;9(3):212-217.