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The short-term high from crack cocaine use: Do you know the science behind these feelings?
Crack cocaine, often referred to as "crack," is a free radical form of cocaine that can be smoked. The substance provides users with a short, intense high and is considered the most addictive form of cocaine. Beginning in 1984, crack cocaine became widely used in poor communities across the United States and quickly became a popular recreational drug. However, people's understanding of crack cocaine is usually limited to the instant pleasure it brings and its disgusting aftereffects, while ignoring the scientific principles and health risks behind it.
The initial effect of crack cocaine is the release of large amounts of dopamine, the brain chemical that triggers feelings of euphoria.
Physical and chemical properties of cracked cocaine
The pure white form of crack cocaine usually appears as irregular "stones" with a hard texture, harder than a candle. It melts when brought near flames and sinks in water. Its properties allow crack cocaine to quickly enter the bloodstream when used and reach the brain within eight seconds. However, the process is different from other forms of cocaine because crack cocaine has a lower boiling point, making it more common to smoke.
Recreational Use and Health Effects
Crack cocaine is widely used as a recreational drug, and its effects include euphoria, extreme self-confidence, loss of appetite, insomnia, increased alertness, and a constant craving for cocaine. These brief bursts of pleasure typically last only five to ten minutes before dopamine levels plummet, sending the user back into depression.
Therefore, users often use it further in the hope of feeling the initial pleasure again.
Short-term and long-term physiological effects
Use of crack cocaine may cause a variety of physiological problems, including constriction of blood vessels, dilation of pupils, and increases in heart rate and blood pressure. These effects may worsen with increased use and lead to serious health risks, such as heart attack or seizures. In addition, crack cocaine sold on the market is often mixed with toxic substances, such as taurine, which further increases its health risks.
Psychological Effects and Addiction
On a psychological level, crack cocaine use can cause symptoms such as delusions, anxiety, and paranoia, especially in frequent users. As if in their search for absolute high, they often develop a tolerance to the high as use increases, and must increase the dose to get the same effect. Many users even become unable to sleep for just a few days, constantly taking drugs to achieve that sublime high.
Even if some people can go days or weeks without using, the addictive properties of crack cocaine still make it challenging for them.
Conclusion
The short-term pleasure of crack cocaine may be addictive, but the hidden dangers and health risks behind it should not be underestimated. Whether it is physical or psychological, you may pay a heavy price for this momentary pleasure. Do we know and understand the effects of this drug enough to promote more effective prevention and treatment measures?
