Cocaine.
Class A
Street Names - Coke, Snow, Charlie, Cheng, Toot, Sherbert, White
Description
Street cocaine is cocaine hydrochloride, which is refined from the leaves of the coca bush. It is usually a white powder, mixed with other substances, and is sold in small packs called 'wraps' containing one gram.
How it is used
Powders containing cocaine are usually cut into lines using a razor blade or credit card on a flat, smooth surface. The lines of powder are inhaled, via the nose, through a tube. Some people mix the powder with water to inject it, which carries a risk of overdose.
Effects
Cocaine is a stimulant and gives the user a feeling of euphoria, a rush of energy and reduced inhibitions. The effect occurs within a few seconds and generally lasts for less than thirty minutes. Cocaine is highly addictive.
The 'high' is followed by a deep low, with panic attacks, paranoia, depression and insomnia. Users often take more cocaine in an effort to stop the low.
Long-term use of cocaine inhaled through the nose can cause permanent damage to the nasal septum (the flesh that divides the nostrils).
The Law
Cocaine is a Class A drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act , with high penalties for its possession and supply. It is an offence to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Risk Reduction
Practise safer sex and use a condom in addition to other contraception to reduce the risks of sexually transmitted infections such as Hepatitis, Chlamydia and HIV.