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Cocaine is a powerfully addictive drug that has affected over 1.4
million Americans. Cocaine is the primary drug of abuse by individuals
who enter drug treatment, accounting for 61% of treatment admissions.
When a person has snorted, smoked, or injected cocaine, he or she
will notice many severe health problems. Cocaine causes withdrawal
effects that can last days, months, and even years; depending on
the dosage, length of use, and frequency. Another significant problem
of cocaine is the stimulation can be so intense that the cocaine
user needs a downer to take the edge of or get to sleep. The most
common downers used with cocaine are alcohol, valium, and heroin.
Several studies conclude that there is a connection between cocaine
addiction and HIV infection. In fact, research indicates that cocaine
use drastically increases the risk of HIV infection. One study concluded
that 35% of daily cocaine users were HIV positive. When cocaine
is injected, bacteria and viruses from contaminated needles can
transmit diseases, such as hepatitis, blood and heart infections,
and AIDS.
Cocaine can be detrimental by causing many health related problems.
Some people who use cocaine experience feelings of anxiety, restlessness,
irritability, and depression. Cocaine causes headaches, increased
heart rate, loss of appetite, and seizures. Cocaine can also induce
hallucinations, paranoia, and aggressive behavior. Most importantly,
cocaine effects are directly related to heart problems, long-term
changes in the brain, and liver damage.
We have only scratched the surface of describing the addictive
drug of cocaine. For additional information on cocaine, please contact
Health Services at 255-4850. The following are valuable websites
that will give you in-depth facts about cocaine.
Websites and Links
National Institute on Drug
Abuse
Cocaine Effects
Indiana
Prevention Resource Center - Information About Cocaine
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