What is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a powerful and addictive illegal drug. It is extracted from the coca plant which is native to South America. Historically, natives chewed coca leaves or brewed them into a tea. However, in the mid-1900s, the first pure form of cocaine hydrochloride was extracted, and it was used both medicinally and recreationally for several decades.

Cocaine was criminalized in 1914 after healthcare professionals saw the alarming effects of cocaine abuse. Today, it is a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, meaning it has a high potential for abuse but can be administered by a doctor for medical purposes, such as local anesthesia.

Cocaine usually comes in the form of a fine white powder. Powdered cocaine is typically snorted. However, a cheaper form of cocaine known as crack cocaine comes in the form of rock-like crystals that are smoked or injected. Smoking crack cocaine is just as addictive as snorting the powdered form of it.

Cocaine, a strong stimulant drug, can boost energy levels and produce a strong, euphoric high. As a result, it is widely abused and highly addictive. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), about 4.8 million people reported using cocaine in 2021 and 1.4 million were addicted to it.

Despite its short-term effects of euphoria, increased energy, and heightened alertness, cocaine is highly addictive and can have serious long-term consequences on physical and mental health. Prolonged use can lead to tolerance, dependence, cardiovascular issues, neurological problems, and psychiatric disorders. Additionally, cocaine use is associated with various social and legal consequences, including financial problems, strained relationships, and legal troubles.

Slang Terms for Cocaine

Drug dealers and users may use slang terms or nicknames when referring to cocaine. Using slang terms can help them feel more discreet. Common street names for cocaine include:

Crack Cocaine Street Names

Common slang terms for crack cocaine include:

Nicknames for Common Cocaine Drug Combinations

While many of the slang terms for cocaine and crack cocaine are based on the drug’s appearance, effects, or pop culture, there are also nicknames used to refer to specific drug combinations involving cocaine. These include:

International Slang for Cocaine

Different countries may have their own unique slang terms and street names for drugs. Some common Spanish nicknames for cocaine include:

Drug Paraphernalia Associated With Cocaine Abuse

If you suspect a friend or family member is struggling with cocaine addiction, it’s helpful to not only learn the slang terms or nicknames they may use but also the types of drug paraphernalia they may have in their possession.

Some of the most common items associated with cocaine abuse are:

Other Signs of Cocaine Abuse

Other signs of cocaine abuse include:

Get Help for Cocaine Addiction Today

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction and ready to begin the journey toward addiction recovery, please contact First Step Behavioral Health today. Our rehab program can help you find freedom from cocaine. To learn more about our cocaine addiction treatment programs or to get started with a confidential, risk-free assessment, please contact us today.

Speak with someone right now.
close