Cocaine

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Cocaine is a type of drug that comes from the leaves of a plant called coca. It stimulates the nervous system and can also be used as an appetite suppressant. It makes you feel high (happy feelings).

Cocaine is both a local anaesthetic, and a stimulant. Its anaesthetic properties are caused by the narrowing of blood vessels which makes it harder for the heart to pump blood. This causes the heart rate to increase. The euphoric stimulant properties are activated by a neurotransmitter in the brain called Dopamine, the same neurotransmitter affected by amphetamine.

Cocaine can be chewed or eaten, injected, inhaled (also known as snorting), or smoked. Cocaine can also be used as a spermicide.

Cocaine is illegal to produce, sell, and use recreationally in most countries. It can be used as a medicine in Australia and some parts of Europe.

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