Cocaine (benzoylmethylecgonine) (INN) is a crystalline tropane alkaloid that is obtained from the leaves of the coca plant. The name comes from "coca" and the alkaloid suffix -ine, forming cocaine. It is a stimulant of the central nervous system, an appetite suppressant, and a topical anesthetic. Specifically, it is a serotonin–norepinephrine–dopamine reuptake inhibitor (also known as a triple reuptake inhibitor (TRI)). It is addictive because of...
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Cocaine (benzoylmethylecgonine) (INN) is a crystalline tropane alkaloid that is obtained from the leaves of the coca plant. The name comes from "coca" and the alkaloid suffix -ine, forming cocaine. It is a stimulant of the central nervous system, an appetite suppressant, and a topical anesthetic. Specifically, it is a serotonin–norepinephrine–dopamine reuptake inhibitor (also known as a triple reuptake inhibitor (TRI)). It is addictive because of the way it affects the mesolimbic reward pathway.
Unlike most molecules, cocaine has pockets with both high hydrophilic and lipophilic efficiency, violating the rule of hydrophilic-lipophilic balance. This causes it to cross the blood-brain barrier far better than other psychoactive chemicals.
It is illegal to have, grow or distribute cocaine for non-medicinal and non-government sanctioned purposes in almost all countries. Still it is used extensively throughout the world.
Cocaine is a powerful nervous system stimulant. Its effects can last...
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