What is cocaine abuse?
A person who abuses cocaine uses the drug regularly. Cocaine is a chemical found in the leaves of the Erythroxylum coca plant. It is extracted from the leaves and purified by a chemical process. Cocaine is generally sold as a fine, white powder. In this form, it can be snorted, swallowed, or injected into a vein. Cocaine can be easily converted to crack, a more potent form, by a simple chemical process. Crack cocaine can be smoked. Cocaine is a strong stimulant that causes adverse effects on the heart and cardiovascular system. Complications include stroke, heart attack, and cardiac arrhythmias.

What are the symptoms of cocaine abuse?
Initial symptoms of cocaine abuse include hyperactive behavior, high blood pressure, fever, excessive sweating, muscle tremors, and a rapid pulse. Serious symptoms of cocaine abuse include: abdominal pain, chest pain, blurred vision, palpitations, vomiting, and seizures.

How does the doctor treat cocaine abuse?
Treatment for cocaine abuse may include detoxification program, medications, group therapy, and mental health counseling.