Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant that directly affects the brain. Cocaine is a strong central nervous system stimulant which affects the brain’s processing of dopamine. Intake of the cocaine causes constricted peripheral blood vessels, dilated pupils, and increased temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. Repeated cocaine use leads to tolerance, dependence, and addiction.
Cocaine has the following physiological effects on the human body:
Brain:
As already said cocaine is a central nervous stimulant that interferes with the re absorption process of dopamine, a chemical messenger associated with pleasure and movement. Its major effect is on the functioning of the brain. Cocaine causes seizures and can lead to bizarre or violent behavior.
Heart:
Cocaine constricts the arteries that supplies blood to the heart and they also increase the heart rate and blood pressure. This may also result in the heart strokes. Cocaine can also trigger a deadly abnormal heart rhythm called arrhythmia, killing the person who is abusing the cocaine instantly.
Lungs:
Snorting cocaine damages the nose and sinuses. Smoking crack cocaine irritates the lungs, and in some people, causes permanent lung damage. Regular use of cocaine may also cause nasal perforation.
Kidneys:
Cocaine can cause sudden, overwhelming kidney failure through a process called rhabdomyolysis. In the people suffering with the high blood pressure there is a possibility of increase in the damage of the kidneys if they use cocaine.
Gastrointestinal Tract:
Cocaine constricts blood vessels that supplies blood to the intestine, this may lower the oxygen supply to the intestine which in turn causes ulcers or may even cause perforation of the stomach or intestines.
Sexual Function:
Chronic cocaine use can impair sexual function in men and women. In men, cocaine can cause delayed or impaired ejaculation.
Cocaine as already mentioned has very severe damaging effects on the body, hence its use should be avoided.