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Cocaine Overdose
Cocaine abuse is a common problem. Some drug awareness groups have identified cocaine as the drug of abuse most commonly involved in emergency room visits (excluding alcohol). In 1988, it was reported as the second most common cause of drug related death. Cocaine is a naturally occurring plant alkaloid found in the leaves of the Erythroxylon coca plant. Cocaine is produced (in its most common form) through the chemical process of extraction and then purified to the hydrochloride salt (a white powder). The powder can be "cut" with any number of constituents to decrease potency and increase yield. Quinine, talc, strychnine, and arsenic have commonly been used. From this point, it is insufflated or "snorted" intranasaly or injected into a vein. A more potent form of the alkaloid can be obtained by extracting it in ether (in alkaline solution). This has been referred to as "free-base" or crack." From there it may be smoked with tobacco in a pipe or cigarette. The effects of cocaine are numerous. Symptoms and physical changes include: rapid heart rate (tachycardia), sweating, hypertension, agitation, increased body temperature (hyperpyrexia) and seizures. Large doses may result in low blood pressure, low heart rate, and coma (unresponsiveness). The feelings of euphoria and well being are what the drug user seeks. Complications of acute cocaine intoxication include: myocardial infarction, stroke, kidney damage, and spontaneous pneumothorax (in those who inhale cocaine vapors). Pneumonia following the use of crack cocaine has been referred to as "crack lung." Other risks of cocaine use include a higher incidence of sepsis (blood borne infection), endocarditis (infection of the heart valves), AIDS, hepatitis, osteomyelitis, thrombophlebitis, and aspiration pneumonia. Trauma relatedinjury and death is also higher in this group. The treatment of cocaine overdose must also eventually include dealing with the underlying problem of cocaine addiction. Rehabilitation programs are available at many major centers to help the patient through the symptoms of drug withdrawal. Success is directly related to the patient's desire to quit. See your physician for assistance.
Hope that this article will provide you information about cocaine overdose.
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