All the illicit drugs described below will cause addiction in susceptible individuals. The addiction may be psychological, physical, or both. Additionally, the illicit use of drugs increases the risk of contracting hepatitis, AIDS, and other infections. If used excessively, the use of alcohol or drugs singularly or in certain combinations, may cause death. The sense of stimulation received from cocaine probably results from the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter.
Dopamine is associated with pleasure and a sense of alertness.
Chronic cocaine use eventually leads to blockage of the re-uptake sites of the original dopamine projector cells. This results in dopamine depletion, basically rendering the individual incapable of feeling pleasure without the drug. Chronic users experience cocaine-triggered seizures or psychotic behavior. Cocaine is among the most reinforcing of drugs. An individual using the drug experiences a strong compulsion to take more of the drug each time it is used.