kokaiinin

Kokaiinin (cocaine) is a tropane alkaloid derived from the leaves of Erythroxylum coca and related plants. It is commonly encountered as a hydrochloride salt used medically and as an illicit street drug. The alkaloid concentration varies with plant source and preparation.

Pharmacologically, kokaiinin acts as a powerful central nervous system stimulant and local anesthetic. It blocks the reuptake of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, producing euphoria, increased energy, and heightened alertness, as well as vasoconstriction. As a local anesthetic, it blocks voltage-gated sodium channels, providing rapid numbness in certain medical procedures.

Historically, the alkaloid was isolated in the 19th century and later used in tonics and medicines before the full scope of its addictive potential was understood. It is regulated under international drug control treaties, and non-medical use is prohibited in most countries. Preparations typically appear as a water-soluble hydrochloride salt for medical use and as free-base forms or crack for non-prescribed consumption.

Health risks include acute toxicity with tachycardia, hypertension, hyperthermia, arrhythmias, seizures, and risk of stroke. Chronic use can lead to dependence, paranoia, anxiety, mood disorders, and cognitive changes. Overdose can be fatal. Pregnancy carries increased risk of adverse outcomes for both mother and fetus.

In modern medicine, cocaine remains approved for limited local anesthetic applications in select procedures in a few countries. In most places, its production and distribution are tightly regulated, and treatment and harm-reduction programs address dependence and overdose.