When cocaine is snorted, the effects begin within a few minutes, peak in 15 to 20 minutes and disappear after a few hours. Low doses produce a short period of euphoria and feelings of increased energy, alertness, self-esteem and sensory awareness. While artificially depleting the body's energy supply, cocaine reduces the perceived need for food and sleep and can cause impulsive behavior and mood changes. Because larger amounts get to the brain quickly, smoking also increases the risks of using the drug. Risks include confusion, anxiety, slurred speech and psychological problems.
Smoking crack produces an intense and rapid euphoria commonly known as a flash high.
Cocaine molecules reach the brain in less than 10 seconds. The user feels irritable and agitated, and has an intense craving for more cocaine caused by the high concentration of the drug in the bloodstream. The initial high is never reached again, and subsequent lows get lower. This cycle reinforces the craving. Injecting cocaine produces an effect within 30 seconds that peaks in five minutes and lasts about a half hour.