Question

Addiction to cocain and other drugs can lead to permeant alteration to the function 10 points of the nerve system. It is quite hard to quit such a habit due to various reasons. Explain in details how cocain can induces such a negative impact *

Answer 1

Coca has been used since ages as a food substitute, a stimulant, a medicine, as an aphrodisiac, a means to stay warm and as a measure of distance running. Cocoa is also used as a food substitute and also in treating variety of ailments and diseases. Coca leaves also reduces amount of heat loss through the extremities and keep the body warmer. Coca plant contains 14 different alkaloids in which Cocaine is one of them In the long run scientists were able to describe the effect of cocaine on the central nervous system causing Euphoria and a decrease in fatigue.

Effect on Central Nervous System:

• In the Nervous system Cocaine blocked or reversibly interrupted the passage of nervous impulses which transmit the sensation of pain to the nerve centres of the brain without loss of consciousness.
• Cocaine changes the properties of the conductor nerve membrane by blocking free flux of sodium ions and altering the capacity of depolarization of axon membrane through which the nerve conduction is produced.
• Cocaine inhibit the conduction of nerve impulses which transmit the pain sensation to the brain.
• With increased addiction the sensitivity to heat and cold at first and sensitivity to tact and pressure are blocked.
• Cocaine causes Headaches, seizures, strokes and coma.

Other effects:

• Cocaine causes dilated pupils, Talkative habits, mood swings, etc.,
• Gastrointestinal disease and loss of appetite.
• Cardiovascular disease causing increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Loss of memory
• Altered sleep patterns.
• Reduced your body ability to store fat.

Negative Effects of withdrawl:

Treatment for cocaine addiction is difficult because of the extreme physical and psychological dependence associated with its use. The powerful craving during cocaine withdrawl can lead to relapse and depression causing suicidal thoughts.

• Fatigue
• Tremors
• Depression
• Agitation
• Restlessness
• Hallucinations
• Cravings
• Exhaustion
• Unable to concentrate