Cocaine is a potent central nervous system stimulant derived from the leaves of the coca plant (primarily Erythroxylum coca). As a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, it has limited medical uses—typically as a topical anesthetic for mucosal anesthesia and vasoconstrictor in certain surgical settings—while possessing high potential for misuse and dependence. This profile provides an evergreen explanation of cocaine’s pharmacology, common patterns of use, acute and chronic health effects, public health considerations, and context for harm reduction and treatment.
