Cocaine is a powerful drug that stimulates the brain. People who use it can form a strong addiction. They may have to use more and more of the drug to get high. It's sold on the street as a fine, white powder. There are two forms of cocaine: hydrochloride salt and freebase. The salt dissolves in water. People can take it in a vein or in the nose. The freebase form can be smoked. Crack is the street name of a smokable form of cocaine.
No matter how cocaine is taken, it is dangerous. Some of the most common serious problems include
Any of these can be fatal. Using cocaine with alcohol is a common cause of drug-related death.
National Institute on Drug Abuse
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Date last updated: 31 July 2008 Topic last reviewed: 19 June 2008 |