Fast Facts: Cocaine

Cocaine is a white powder which results from the processing of the leaves of the coca plant.
Cocaine may be processed into a crystal form known as "crack".

Effects

Cocaine is a stimulant and an anaesthetic. It speeds up the nervous system and numbs whatever human tissue it touches. It also:

• increases blood pressure

• increases heart rate

• increases breathing rate

• causes coma

• causes heart irregularities

• suppresses appetite

• increases alertness

• causes stroke

• possible death

• low sex drive

• depression

• insomnia

• deterioration of the wall between the nostrils

• hallucinations

• nose bleeds

• large doses can cause death by heart or lung failure

Cocaine and Pregnancy
Babies born to mothers who use cocaine face:

• premature birth
• low birth rate
• spontaneous abortion
• brain damage

Cocaine and The Law
Cocaine is listed in the Narcotic Control Act of the Criminal Code.
It is illegal to possess cocaine. Possession may result in a maximum prison sentence of seven years. Possession for the purpose of trafficking* carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

*trafficking - to manufacture, sell, give, transport, send, deliver, distribute or any combination.