Pharmacology of Cocaine Effects

What is one of the effects of cocaine on the central nervous system?

Which cardiac condition can result from cocaine-induced thrombus formation?

What systemic response is a result of neurotransmitters accumulating in synapses due to cocaine use?

Which organ is particularly at risk from the effects of cocaine when consumed?

What is a primary source of exposure to cocaine-related contamination?

Neurotransmitter Uptake Blockage

Cocaine inhibits dopamine uptake in the central nervous system (CNS).
It also blocks the reuptake of epinephrine and norepinephrine at adrenergic nerve endings.
Accumulation of neurotransmitters in synapses leads to hyperstimulation.

Symptoms of Hyperstimulation

Tachycardia (increased heart rate) results from neurotransmitter accumulation.
Hypertension (high blood pressure) occurs due to enhanced adrenergic stimulation.
Peripheral vasoconstriction is induced by elevated norepinephrine levels.

Effects on the Cardiovascular System

Cocaine induces vasoconstriction of coronary arteries, increasing the risk of heart complications.
Promotes thrombus (blood clot) formation by enhancing platelet aggregation.
Location of thrombus formation determines specific health outcomes:
- In the heart: Multiple infarction myocardial infarctions (MI) can occur.
- In the brain: Risk of stroke increases with cerebral thrombus formation.

Damage to Organs

Cocaine is damaging to the CNS, particularly affecting the developing fetus.
It negatively impacts various organs, including:
- GI tract: Damage to the lining epithelium occurs upon ingestion.
- Kidneys: Cocaine can cause harm during the excretion process.

Source of Exposure

The primary source of cocaine exposure is consuming contaminated fish.

Explore the pharmacological impacts of cocaine on the central nervous system and adrenergic nerve endings. This quiz covers how cocaine affects neurotransmitter levels, leading to conditions such as tachycardia, hypertension, and thrombus formation. Understand the implications of cocaine use in relation to coronary artery health and its potential for inducing strokes.