Cocaine is a powerful stimulant typically used intranasally for recreational purposes. It is distributed as a white, crystalline powder and is often diluted with various substances, making it unpredictable and dangerous. Street names include coke, blow, powder, or snow.

Cocaine’s addictive nature stems from its impact on the brain’s reward system. When consumed, it rapidly increases dopamine levels, creating intense euphoria that reinforces drug-taking behavior. Over time, repeated dopamine spikes alter brain chemistry, reducing the ability to feel pleasure without the drug and leading to increased tolerance and dependency.