In it's pure form, cocaine is white crystalline powder extracted from the leaves of the South American coca plant. Cocaine is a stimulant, medically used as an anesthetic. Cocaine is risky in any form of use. When smoked it reaches the brain within seconds, increasing the risks. Snorting and injecting, even small amounts, can cause convulsions that can result in heart and respiratory failure, and death.
Cocaine can be extremely dangerous when used in combination with other drugs.
Cocaine is psychologically addictive and research indicates possible physical addiction. Cocaine does not get rid of depression, it only produces an euphoria that gives that illusion. Once the euphoria wears off, approximately 30 minutes, the user is usually more depressed than before. Cocaine can produce complete sexual dysfunction and is not the aphrodisiac that people psychologically conjure up. Cocaine causes withdrawal symptoms when its use is stopped.