COCAINE
From: www.drugfreeamerica.org

Cocaine is a white powder that comes from the leaves of the South American coca plant. Cocaine is either "snorted" through the nasal passages or injected intravenously. Users call it by a variety of names, including coke, C, snow, blow, toot, nose candy, flake, and The Lady. Cocaine belongs to a class of drugs known as stimulants, which tend to give a temporary illusion of limitless power and energy that leaves the user feeling depressed, edgy, and craving more. Crack is a form of cocaine that has been chemically altered so that it can be smoked. Cocaine and crack are highly addictive. This addiction can erode physical and mental health and can become so strong that these drugs dominate all aspects of an addict's life. Cocaine and crack use has been a contributing factor in a number of drownings, car crashes, falls, burns, and suicides. People under the influence of crack and cocaine frequently do risky things they later regret.

NEGATIVE EFFECTS

pupil dilation elevated blood pressure elevated heart rate increased respiratory rate increased body temperature stuffy or runny nose irritation of the mucous membrane of the nose central nervous system stimulation AIDS, hepatitis and other diseases caused by injecting cocaine with contaminated equipment.

insomnia loss of appetite tactile hallucinations paranoia seizures death by cardiac arrest or respiratory failure constricted peripheral blood vessels feelings of restlessness, irritability, and anxiety harm to health and development of infants born to women who use cocaine while pregnant

What Are the Psychological Risks?

• violent, erratic, or paranoid behavior
• hallucinations and "coke bugs" -- a sensation of imaginary insects crawling over the skin
• confusion, anxiety and depression, loss of interest in food or sex
• "cocaine psychosis" -- losing touch with reality, loss of interest in friends, family, sports, hobbies and other activities

Quick Facts

• Know the law. Cocaine and crack are illegal substances. Depending on where you are caught, you could face high fines and jail time.
• Get the facts right. Even one hit of crack or cocaine can be fatal.
• Stay informed. Injecting cocaine can give you hepatitis and AIDS.
• Be aware of the risks. Using drugs increases the risk of injury. Car crashes, falls, burns, drowning, and suicide are all linked to drug use.
• Keep your edge. Drug use can ruin your looks, make you depressed, and contribute to slipping grades.
• Play it safe. One incident of drug use could lead to addiction or even death.
• Do the smart thing. Using drugs puts your health, education, family ties, and social life at risk.
  Get with the program. Doing drugs isn't "in" anymore.
• Face your problems. Using drugs won't help you escape your problems, it will only create more.
• Be a real friend. If you know someone with a drinking problem, be part of the solution. Urge your friend to get help.