Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Generic: Cocaine
Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant native to South America. It is classified as a Schedule II drug due to its high potential for abuse and dependence. It primarily affects the central nervous system by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, leading to an intense but short-lived euphoria. Cocaine exists as a hydrochloride salt (powder form) and as a freebase form (crack cocaine).
Cocaine is used illegally as a recreational stimulant; historically it has been used as a local anesthetic, primarily in ophthalmological and ENT procedures.
Outcome:
Increased risk of cardiotoxicity and cocaethylene formation (a toxic metabolite)
Mechanism:
Synergistic effects on the cardiovascular system
Outcome:
Respiratory depression, sedation
Mechanism:
Additive CNS depressant effects
Outcome:
Potential for gastrointestinal bleeding
Mechanism:
Vasoconstriction and platelet inhibition
Most likely new development: Novel addiction therapies targeting specific neurotransmitter systems involved in cocaine dependence (Year: 2028, 65% confidence).
Based on the continued high prevalence of cocaine use and associated health consequences, stricter regulations on precursor chemicals used in cocaine production are likely to be implemented within the next 5 years (80% confidence).
Stimulant, Local Anesthetic
Tropane Alkaloid