Immediate effects
Cocaine is usually sold as a white powder and inhaled through the nose. Another less common variant is "crack", which takes the form of small crystals and can be smoked. It is also possible to inject cocaine. 

The effects of cocaine usually last about four hours. 

Cocaine is a stimulant, meaning it speeds up some of the body’s activities. For instance, it raises the heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature. It also causes a loss of appetite and makes it difficult to sleep. And it induces a feeling of self-confidence and well-being, although this can change after a few hours to agitation or anger. 

Larger doses of cocaine can lead to headaches, an inability to concentrate, violent behaviour, anxiety attacks, hallucinations, and chest pains. In extreme cases, it has been known to cause heart attacks, lung failure and burst blood vessels in the brain. 

Because cocaine suppliers often mix the drug with other substances, this can often increase the potential health risk. 

Mixing cocaine with other drugs can be very harmful. Taking cocaine with heroin is a particularly dangerous combination. 

　

Long term effects
Regular use can result in mental illnesses, and may induce seizures. It can also bring about insomnia and weight loss. 

Inhaling cocaine through the nose can lead to sinusitis and damage of the nasal passages. 

Smoking cocaine or crack can cause respiratory illnesses and damage the lungs. 

Taking cocaine intravenously damages the blood vessels and may result in damage to various internal organs. Sharing needles also increases the risks of various infectious diseases, such as hepatitis and HIV, the virus that brings about AIDS. 

Research suggests cocaine use during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth. It may also be the cause of behavioural problems identified among some babies exposed to cocaine during the pregnancy. 

The effect cocaine has on the brain means many users become dependent on it. When they stop, withdrawal symptoms include depression, nausea, and hunger

. 

　

[back]