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Contains bibliographic reference sources. Cocaine hydrochloride is the chemical extracted from the leaves of the coca plant and is used to form the base of both cocaine and crack. Because they have the same base ingredient, they share many of the same short-term side effects such as euphoria, increased energy, mental alertness, anxiety, and paranoia.
Over time, larger amounts of the drug are required to release enough dopamine to elicit the same high. Crack and cocaine are two dangerous substances that, while similar, have their differences. Consider the following key points when comparing the two:. Making cocaine from coca leaves is a lengthy process requiring either a solvent, such as kerosene or acid, to extract the cocaine from the leaves.
Once the cocaine is separated from the leaves it is then processed further to remove impurities and dried into a powder form known as cocaine hydrochloride, the basic street-form of cocaine. Crack comes from further processing of the cocaine. While the drugs are similar in their origination, there are some key differences between the two.
This powdered, water-soluble form of cocaine can be snorted, rubbed on the gums or dissolved in water, and injected directly into the veins. Depending on the route of administrationthe effects of cocaine can set in quickly. After snorting the drug, the effects can be felt within 3 to 5 minutes with a high lasting for 15 to 30 minutes.
When the powdered form What is in crack injected intravenously, the high can be felt within 15 to 30 seconds. Some street dealers cut their products with other substances, such as talcum powder, cornstarch, flour, or baking soda to increase their profits. Crack is made when cocaine hydrochloride powder is dissolved in water then mixed with baking soda. This mixture is then heated to remove the hydrochloride leaving behind a concentrated form of cocaine. This in small, white, irregularly shaped rocks. Sold on the streets, the size of the rocks can vary but usually are around one-tenth to one-half of a gram.
See also: What does crack look like.
Crack cocaine
When the substance is smoked, the vapor is inhaled into the lungs and enters the bloodstream almost as quickly as the injected form of cocaine. Crack derives its name from the crackling sound it makes when smoked. The almost instantaneous high can last anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes.
A common perception is that cocaine is better or safer to use than crack is. The perception What is in crack reinforced by the penalties associated with the two drugs. Crack-possession penalties are more severe than cocaine-possession penalties, with a ratio of 18 to 1. This imbalance means that 28 grams of crack will receive the same sentence as grams of powdered cocaine.
The disparity is highly controversial and often attributed to racial and economic bias rather than the relative harm of crack compared to cocaine. Regardless of how many people use which drug and what the penalties are for doing so, the truth of the matter is that both drugs are illegal, dangerous and highly addictive. Overdosing is a risk people take when they chose to use either form of the stimulant drug.
If someone were to consume the two substances around the same time, the onset of symptoms would overlap and increase the chances of an overdose occurring. The effects of each drug are intense, and in many cases, unpredictable. Both are often cut with other substances, which can dramatically increase the risk of accidental overdose. Other potential dangerous side effects include:. Although certain populations of South Americans have been chewing What is in crack the leaves of the coca plant for over 4, yearsthe active ingredient was only introduced to the United States in the s.
Its recreational use is considered a crime. The United Nations Drug Report estimates that there are 20 million cocaine users worldwide. Inthe National Drug Threat Assessment reported that at the time the estimated cocaine production was at the highest level ever reported. The widespread use of these stimulants not only represents a serious public health problem, but it also indicates the need for education on these two drugs, their key differences, and inherent dangers.
Crack addiction
If you or someone you know struggles with cocaine or crack use, reach out to The Recovery Village. Call today to speak with a representative who can help you find the treatment that works for you. Begin your healthier future today. Richards, J. Accessed April 28, National Institute on Drug Abuse.
DEA Intelligence Report. Walker, L. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. United States Drug Enforcement Administration. Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options, and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited, and reviewed by d medical professionals.
The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice What is in crack your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. Proud Supporter. Alcohol Abuse. Should I Detox at Home?
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Medically Reviewed By Dr. Karen Vieira, PHD. If you are a healthcare professional and you find any issue, please reach out to [ protected]. Crack and cocaine are highly addictive stimulant drugs that are derived from the coca plant found in South America.
Article at a Glance: Crack and cocaine are two dangerous substances that, while similar, have their differences. Consider What is in crack following key points when comparing the two: Both crack and cocaine are derived from the coca plant The United States Drug Enforcement Administration classifies both as Schedule II substances Cocaine is generally more expensive than crack Drug usage statistics suggest that people admit to using cocaine more often than crack The high from cocaine typically lasts longer than with crack Table of Contents.
Sources Richards, J. Ready to start? We're here for you. About Us. Get Started. We're here to help you or your loved one. Call for Treatment. Start with Teletherapy.
