Cocaine Sources and Effects

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the sources, effects, and mechanisms of cocaine as discussed in the lecture.

Cocaine

An alkaloid chemical (found in the shrub Erythroxylon coca, indigenous to Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia.)

Extraction of Cocaine

coca leaves are ground and mixed with chemicals to form a paste ( which can be further processed into various forms like freebase or cocaine hydrochloride.)

Cocaine Hydrochloride

water-soluble form of cocaine that can be dissolved, injected, or snorted but cannot be smoked.

Monoaminergic Synapses

Synapses that utilize monoamine neurotransmitters such as dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE), and serotonin (5-HT).

Dopamine (DA)

A neurotransmitter synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine, removed from the synapse by presynaptic dopamine transporters (DAT).

Norepinephrine (NE)

A neurotransmitter synthesized directly from dopamine, removed from the synapse by presynaptic norepinephrine transporters (NET).

Serotonin (5-HT)

A neurotransmitter synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan, removed from the synapse by presynaptic serotonin transporters (SERT).

Neurochemical actions of cocaine

Cocaine inhibits DAT, NET, and SERT, resulting in elevated synaptic levels of DA, NE, and 5-HT.

Chronic Cocaine Use

Leads to homeostatic changes in dopamine synapses, including lower levels of tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine autoreceptors.

Autonomic Effects of Cocaine

Increases synaptic levels of norepinephrine, leading to tachycardia and vasoconstriction, contributing to hypertension.

Cocaine Adulterants

Substances used to dilute cocaine, which may increase potential harm and are sometimes not safe for human consumption.

Local Anesthetic Mechanisms of Cocaine

Blocks voltage-gated sodium channels at high concentrations, leading to cessation of activity in local neurons.

Freud's views on Cocaine

Published recommendations for cocaine use as an antidepressant but later toned down his views after recognizing addiction potential.