Cocaine

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Cocaine

Cocaine (pronounced: koh-KAYN) is a powerful stimulant drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant native to South America.

Etymology

The term "cocaine" originates from the plant "coca" from which it is extracted and the alkaloid suffix "-ine". The word "coca" is derived from the Quechua word "kuka", which is the name for the plant in the Andean region.

Description

Cocaine is a white crystalline powder that is often mixed with substances such as cornstarch, talcum powder, or flour to increase profits. It can also be mixed with other drugs such as the stimulant amphetamine, or the synthetic opioid fentanyl.

Use and Effects

Cocaine is most commonly snorted, but can also be smoked (in a form known as "crack" cocaine) or injected. The drug increases levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and movement, in the brain's reward circuit. This leads to intense feelings of energy and alertness, known as a "high".

Health Risks

Regular use of cocaine can lead to a number of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and severe mental disorders. It is also highly addictive, and withdrawal from the drug can cause depression, agitation, and intense cravings for the drug.

Related Terms

  • Crack cocaine: A form of cocaine that has been processed to make a rock crystal that can be smoked.
  • Coca: The plant from which cocaine is derived.
  • Stimulant: A type of drug that increases levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body.
  • Dopamine: A neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and movement.

External links

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