Cocaine is also a toxin with neurotransmission-associated effects. It blocks neurons from receiving catecholamines. It is able to cross the blood-brain barrier and act on the neurons of the brain, which accounts for the euphoric effects caused in users. Like nicotine, cocaine has marked effects on the fetuses of pregnant users. It decreases uterine blood flow, causing hypoxia in the fetus.
Miscarriages are also more common among cocaine users.
Cocain also causes permanent neurological damage in children who were exposed in utero.