Cocaine is a powerful stimulant derived from the Coca plant and comes in a variety of forms. Cocaine is legally classified in the U.S. as a Schedule II drug, meaning it has high abuse potential with limited recognized medical use. Cocaine is otherwise known as coke, snow, toot, blow, nose candy or crack. Cocaine produces a state of excitement or euphoria. It enhances alertness, heightens self-confidence and temporarily relieves depression.
Cocaine suppresses appetite and relieves fatigue.
As these effects wear off, the user can experience confusion, dizziness and depression. Large doses of cocaine stimulate the heart, increases blood pressure and breathing becomes shallow and rapid. The effects of cocaine are influenced by the route of administration. Smoking cocaine has become increasingly popular. Additionally, if a person injects cocaine, the person runs a higher risk of contracting infectious diseases such as AIDS or hepatitis.