POLICE ASSOCIATION OF NOVA SCOTIA 85 continued Know the Risks and Effects continued Other medical complications include: • high blood pressure • irregular heartbeat • impotence (sexual dysfunction) • Smoking crack cocaine can cause chest pain and breathing difficulties (crack lung) • Sharing drug supplies, such as needles, pipes, straws, and spoons, can spread viruses. These include HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C • Prolonged cocaine snorting can result in ulceration of the mucous membrane of the nose and can damage the nasal septum enough to cause it to collapse Risks of use with other substances Using cocaine with other drugs, particularly opiates such as fentanyl, either at the same time or consecutively, is associated with an increased risk of overdose.The increased availability of cocaine in the illegal drug supply and the drug’s couse with opioids are contributing to increased rates of cocainerelated deaths in Canada.1 When people mix cocaine and alcohol, they are compounding the danger each drug poses and unknowingly causing a complex chemical interaction within their bodies. Researchers have found that the human liver combines cocaine and alcohol to manufacture a third substance, cocaethylene, which intensifies cocaine’s euphoric effects and possibly increases the risk of sudden death. Is Cocaine Addictive? Yes, cocaine is addictive. With repeated use, tolerance to the effects of cocaine can develop. Regular cocaine users can also develop psychological dependence which is characterized by intense cravings for the drug even when the user knows there are significant consequences. Withdrawal from cocaine use – Regular users of cocaine who suddenly stop using the drug may experience the following withdrawal symptoms: • exhaustion • extended and restless sleep • hunger • irritability • suicidal thoughts • intense craving for the drug Some individuals in withdrawal may be at risk for experiencing debilitating depression, which can include suicidal thoughts, causing them to relapse to alleviate overwhelmingly negative thoughts and feelings. Can cocaine/crack cocaine harm a developing fetus and newborn babies? Cocaine use during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage and premature delivery. Babies may be born underweight. Babies born to cocaine users may: • be irritable • feed poorly • not sleep well for several weeks after they are born 1. Cocaine – Canadian Centre on Substance Use & Addiction Effects and Risks of Fentanyl Fentanyl is a potent opiate that is highly addictive. Illicit fentanyl has tainted the drugs sold on the street. Anyone who uses street drugs, even once, is at risk of an accidental overdose. If your child is using street drugs, help them reduce the harm, and seek professional help.
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