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Electrocardiogram (ECG)


Cocaine intoxication

Definition:

Cocaine is a powerful central nervous system stimulant with potent cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) side effects. Signs of intoxication typically begin with enlarged pupils, euphoria, agitation, and increased heart rate and blood pressure.

With higher doses, symptoms can progress to sweating, tremors, confusion, hyperactivity, seizures, stroke, cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heart beats), and sudden death.

See also related topics: drug abuse, drug abuse and dependence, drug abuse first aid, and stroke secondary to cocaine.



Alternative Names:
Intoxication - cocaine


Review Date: 11/4/2005
Reviewed By: William D. Whetstone, M.D., Associate Clinical Professor, Division of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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