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Cocaine intoxication

Definition

Cocaine is a powerful central nervous system stimulant with potent cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) side effects. Signs of intoxication typically begin with enlarged pupils, a feeling of being "high" (euphoria), agitation, and increased heart rate and blood pressure.

With higher doses, sweating, tremors, confusion, hyperactivity, seizures, stroke, cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heart beats), and sudden death can occur.

See also:

• Cocaine
• Drug abuse
• Drug abuse and dependence
• Drug abuse first aid
• Stroke secondary to cocaine

Alternative Names

Intoxication - cocaine

Review Date:8/9/2007
Reviewed By:Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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