Cocaine is a white powder stimulant drug that can be snorted, rubbed on the gums or dissolved in water to be injected into the bloodstream. It is also a popular ingredient in many commercial soft drinks. Cocaine can cause people to feel excited, talkative and alert, but it is a dangerous drug that has serious side effects. It can cause addiction, heart attacks, strokes, a high risk of psychiatric problems and can kill.

People use cocaine to boost their energy levels, improve performance and appear more confident. They may also use it to relieve depression, anxiety or other mental health disorders. However, the long-term effects of using cocaine can make it harder to think, sleep and remember things, and can lead to mood swings. It can also have a negative impact on relationships and the way a person behaves.

When taken, cocaine enters the brain and causes high levels of dopamine to build up in parts of the brain that control feelings of pleasure. The drug blocks the transporters that normally return dopamine to its home cell once it has completed its signaling job, so dopamine builds up in the synapse and keeps binding with other cells’ receptors. This can lead to a feeling of euphoria and excitement, but it can also cause anxiety and paranoia, and can result in hearing or seeing hallucinations.

The effects of the drug last about 30 minutes when snorted, or 20 minutes when injected. Regular use can lead to tolerance, where the user needs higher doses of cocaine to experience the same euphoric effects. It can also make the heart beat faster, raise the body temperature and cause a person to feel sick or need to go to the toilet more often. It can also cause a shortness of breath and increase the chance of having an asthma attack or chest pain.

In addition, it can damage the lungs and kidneys, and even cause heart failure. It can also cause seizures (even in those who don’t have a history of them). It can cause constriction of the blood vessels which increases the risk of headaches, stomach cramps, high blood pressure and stroke. It can also be dangerous to mix cocaine with other drugs that affect the brain or heart, such as amphetamines or sedatives like alcohol.

Symptoms of an overdose include a very fast heartbeat, difficulty breathing, unconsciousness or loss of consciousness, and seizures. If you believe that someone has overdosed on cocaine, it’s important to call 911 immediately and stay with them until help arrives. You can help them to breathe by gently rolling them onto their side into the recovery position. Ensure that they are not lying on their back and don’t cover their mouth or nose with anything.