Cocaine stimulates the central nervous system. Its immediate effects include dilated pupils, elevated blood pressure, heart and respiratory rate, and body temperature. Occasional use can cause a stuffy or runny nose, while chronic use can ulcerate the mucous membrane of the nose with long-term use eroding the nasal septum. The injection of cocaine with unsterile equipment can cause AIDS, hepatitis and other diseases. Preparation of freebase, which involves the use of volatile solvents, can result in death or injury from fire or explosion.
Cocaine can produce psychological and physical dependency.
In addition, tolerance develops rapidly. Crack or freebase rock is extremely addictive. The physical effects include dilated pupils, increased pulse rate, elevated blood pressure, insomina, loss of appetite, tactile hullucinations, paranoia and seizures. Overdoses occur easily. Time and body moverment are slowed down.