Cocaine
StimulantsAlso known as: Coke, Blow, Charlie, Snow, White, Crack
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All content is written, edited, and medically reviewed by licensed professionals with expertise in addiction medicine and behavioral health.
Benjamin Zohar
NCACIP
Nationally Certified Advanced Clinical Intervention Professional and recovery advocate in long-term recovery, specializing in intervention services and treatment coordination.
Ezra Zohar, M.S.Ed.
Educational Specialist
Educational Specialist with M.S. in Secondary Education, reviewing educational content focused on addiction awareness and recovery.
Brandon McNally
RN
Registered Nurse with specialized training in addiction medicine and behavioral health nursing.
Last Updated
November 2025
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Call Helpline: (914) 594-5851What is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a powerful central nervous system stimulant extracted from coca plant leaves. It comes in two forms: cocaine hydrochloride (powder) and crack cocaine (crystallized form). Cocaine increases levels of dopamine in brain circuits regulating pleasure and movement.
Effects
Increased energy and alertness, elevated mood and confidence, decreased appetite, increased heart rate and blood pressure, dilated pupils, hypersensitivity to sight/sound/touch, paranoia, restlessness
Risks & Dangers
Heart attack, stroke, seizures, respiratory failure, sudden death, severe psychological dependence, anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, violent behavior, malnutrition, nasal damage (if snorted), infectious diseases (if injected)
Withdrawal Symptoms
Depression, fatigue, increased appetite, insomnia or hypersomnia, psychomotor agitation, vivid unpleasant dreams, intense cravings
Addiction Potential
Very High - Cocaine is highly addictive both physically and psychologically. Regular use quickly leads to tolerance and dependence.
Duration
Effects typically last 15-30 minutes when snorted, 5-10 minutes when smoked (crack)
Legal Status
Schedule II controlled substance in the US. Illegal to possess, sell, or manufacture without authorization.
Alcohol Interaction Warning
Mixing Cocaine with alcohol can be extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Combining substances increases the risk of:
- • Respiratory depression and overdose
- • Unpredictable effects and loss of consciousness
- • Increased toxicity to liver and other organs
- • Impaired judgment leading to risky behaviors
Learn more about alcohol use disorder and polysubstance use.
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Published: July 15, 2024 • Last Updated: November 25, 2025
Medically reviewed drug information for educational purposes
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