Cocaine dependence is both a physical and a mental addiction to cocaine. The drug provides the user with an intense feeling of euphoria and a rush of energy, which can be intensely addicting. Cocaine use can cause number of dangerous effects, including accelerated heart rate and high blood pressure, both of which increase the person’s risk of heart attack, stroke or aneurysm. Excessive cocaine use can also lead to psychotic episodes and extreme feeling of paranoia.
Marijuana is a much safer alternative to cocaine. It provides none of the side effects of cocaine, and does not cause physical or mental addiction.
