Drugs and Their Risks: The Effects of Cocaine

The cocaine, a powerful psychostimulant derived from the leaves of the coca plant, has been a topic of public interest for decades. The use of this drug has been present since ancient times, as South American indigenous people traditionally chewed coca leaves to reduce their hunger and enhance their endurance in harsh environmental conditions. However, the history of cocaine’s modern application has taken on much darker shades. In the late 19th century, the pharmaceutical industry also discovered the beneficial effects of cocaine, using it as a local anesthetic and for the treatment of various diseases. Coca-Cola even contained cocaine, making the substance commonplace in the daily lives of society at that time.

However, not long after, cocaine was banned worldwide due to its dangerous addictive properties. Previously a privilege of the upper echelons of society, it has now become widespread and is one of the most commonly used illegal drugs. Possession and distribution of cocaine carry severe legal consequences, and its use seriously jeopardizes not only an individual’s health but also their social relationships and financial situation.

The mechanism of action and methods of use of cocaine

Cocaine is most commonly available in powder form, which is snorted through the nasal mucosa, but it can also be used intravenously or in the form of crack, which can be inhaled by heating. During intranasal use, the typical dose ranges from 10 to 150 mg, while for intravenous use, it is recommended to administer 50 to 500 mg. The effects of cocaine occur quickly but last for a short period, approximately one hour, and their intensity depends on the rapid rise in blood levels.

The mechanism of action of cocaine is based on the inhibition of the reuptake of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, resulting in euphoria, increased alertness, and energy. However, after the effect wears off, feelings of depression, irritability, and strong cravings for another dose often emerge, which intensifies the compulsion to continue using. Physiological changes experienced during drug use include increased blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature, as well as decreased appetite and increased sexual desire.

However, the use of larger doses can lead to anxiety, insomnia, aggressiveness, and physical symptoms such as sweating and tremors. Long-term use can result in paranoid reactions and personality distortion. The use of cocaine is particularly dangerous when combined with alcohol, as the formation of a compound called cocaethylene further increases the risk of heart and liver damage.

The long-term effects of cocaine and addiction

The consequences of cocaine use are multifaceted, and physical withdrawal symptoms are not always obvious, but psychological dependence is extremely strong. With regular use, tolerance develops, requiring increasingly larger doses to achieve the desired effect. After cessation of use, feelings of depression, lack of pleasure, exhaustion, and strong cravings may arise, leading to depressive episodes.

Long-term effects of cocaine include an increased risk of arrhythmias, heart attacks, and cerebral artery narrowing. As users increasingly isolate themselves due to regular use, their social relationships may deteriorate. The use of cocaine during pregnancy is particularly risky, as it can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental disorders in the fetus.

Recent research and social impacts

Recent research has confirmed that cocaine use significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, especially among young men. Occasional use, particularly when combined with alcohol or other stimulants, further heightens the risks. The spread of crack cocaine has exacerbated social problems, especially in disadvantaged communities, where the drug can cause intense psychological and social decay.

Access to cocaine is increasing worldwide, with seizure quantities breaking records. The substance is appearing in increasingly purer forms on the European drug market, which also raises the risk of overdose and severe side effects. Global cocaine production has reached a historic peak, and consumption is no longer limited to the upper social classes.

Conclusion

Cocaine is an extremely dangerous psychostimulant that can cause increased alertness, energy, and euphoria in the short term, but its long-term use leads to severe physical and mental damage, as well as social decay. Physical withdrawal symptoms are not always obvious, but psychological dependence is very strong, and relapse is common. Cocaine rapidly destroys the user’s relationships and quality of life, making informed awareness and prevention crucial for improving the health situation of society.