Flashbacks, or delayed effects, can occur even after use has ceased. Cocaine Cocaine stimulates the central nervous system. Immediate physical effects include dilated pupils and increased blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate and body temperature. Occasional use can cause a stuffy or runny nose, while chronic use may destroy nasal tissues. Injecting cocaine with contaminated equipment can cause AIDS, hepatitis and other diseases.
Tolerance develops rapidly, and psychological and physical dependency can occur.
The use of cocaine can cause kidney damage, heart attacks, seizures and strokes due to high blood pressure. Death can occur by cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. The physical effects produced are elevated heart and respiratory rates, increased blood pressure, insomnia and loss of appetite. Sweating, headaches, blurred vision, dizziness and anxiety may also result from use. High dosage can cause rapid or irregular heartbeat, tremors, loss of motor skills and even physical collapse.