What are the physical effects of cocaine?
EFFECTS OF COCAINE ON THE BRAIN Euphoria and Depression: early effects of cocaine use include euphoria lasting 5-15 minutes. This ‘high’ is followed by a crushing ‘low’ (depression) that leaves the user craving more of the drug. Brain Damage and Addiction: Cocaine and ‘crack’ have an overwhelming effect on the ‘pleasure centers’ in the brain. The drugs interfere, alter, damage, and take control of specialized cells that regulate pleasure, well-being and mood. Regular use may shut off the brain’s ability to ever be or feel ‘normal’ without cocaine. EFFECTS OF COCAINE ON THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM Increases blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and body temperature. Suppresses desire for food, sex and sleep. Can cause strokes, brain seizures, respiratory failure, heart attack, convulsions and death. EFFECTS OF COCAINE ON THE LIVER Cocaine and crack can damage the liver’s ability to detoxify blood, while reducing the production of critical enzymes needed for normal body functions. Hepatit
