Whats ‘coco’ about Cocaine?

cocaine-addictionWhat is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a stimulant drug that speeds up the workings of the brain. The drug is extracted from the leaves of a coca plant and is processed with other chemicals to form a white powder like substance. This substance is typically inhaled or injected into the body, though there are other ways to take the drug.

Cocaine is one of the most addictive drugs in to world.

Short term effects of its use:

The effects of taking the drug depend on the strength of the dose, the blend of the chemicals, the physiology of the person and their state of min at the time of taking the drug. The rush of taking the drug only last for a short time, 15-30 minutes after inhalation. The rush includes:

  • Feelings of euphoria, exhilaration and confidence
  • Accelerated heart rate
  • Increase in body temperature
  • A burst of energy
  • Dilated pupils
  • Loss of appetite
  • The urge to have sex

Long term effects of its use:

Regular consumption of the drug through inhalation can result in a damaged lining of the nose and a damaged structure separating the nostrils. If the drug is regularly injected, there is high risk of blood poisoning, blood-borne viruses (eg: HIV or hepatitis) from shared equipment, damaged blood vessels and skin abscesses.

Other long-term effects include:

  • Heart problems
  • Behavioural problems
  • severe depression
  • A condition known as ‘Cocaine psychosis’ (symptoms: aggression, disturbing hallucinations, insects under the skin)

OVERDOSE!!!

When taken in high doses, cocaine will make a person feel extremely agitated, paranoid and aggressive. Physical effects will include dizziness, hallucinations, nausea and vomiting, tremors, headache and heart pain.

The consequences of an overdose include seizures, brain haemorrhage, kidney failure, heart attack or stroke.

Where to get help?

If you have taken the drug, taking the drug or want to try the drug, it is important that you get help and supervision to make yourself as safe a possible. Same ways to get help include:

  • Your doctor
  • Alcohol and other drug service
  • Family drug help – for people concerned about a relative or friend using drugs Tel. 1300 660 068

If an overdose is suspected, call triple zero (000) immediately for an ambulance.

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