Cocaine: Difference between revisions
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'''Cocaine''' (chemical name '''benzoylmethyl ecgonine''') is an organic [[chemistry|chemical]] compound that belongs to the [[alkaloid]] category. Its chemical formula is C<small>17</small>H<small>21</small>NO<small>4</small>. Cocaine is a colorless or white [[crystal]]line substance. It is primarily extracted from [[coca]] plant, largely grown in [[South America]]. | '''Cocaine''' (chemical name '''benzoylmethyl ecgonine''') is an organic [[chemistry|chemical]] compound that belongs to the [[alkaloid]] category. Its chemical formula is C<small>17</small>H<small>21</small>NO<small>4</small>. Cocaine is a colorless or white [[crystal]]line substance. It is primarily extracted from [[coca]] plant, largely grown in [[South America]]. | ||
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*[http://www.bartleby.com/61/3/C0440300.html American Heritage definition] | *[http://www.bartleby.com/61/3/C0440300.html American Heritage definition] | ||
*[http://www.erowid.org/chemicals/cocaine/cocaine.shtml Erowid cocaine vault] | *[http://www.erowid.org/chemicals/cocaine/cocaine.shtml Erowid cocaine vault] | ||
Revision as of 06:15, 26 September 2007
Cocaine (chemical name benzoylmethyl ecgonine) is an organic chemical compound that belongs to the alkaloid category. Its chemical formula is C17H21NO4. Cocaine is a colorless or white crystalline substance. It is primarily extracted from coca plant, largely grown in South America.
In modern times, because of its stimulating and euphoric effects on human body, cocaine is used by humans as a local anesthetic, and, controversially, a psychoactive drug. Due to its abuse, the possession, production and distribution of cocaine has been declared illegal by most countries. In the United States, it is classified by the Controlled Substance Act as a Schedule II substance, allowing only limited medical use. Along with heroin and methamphetamine, cocaine is often considered a "hard drug", being much more physically addictive and harmful than a so-called "soft drug" like marijuana. Despite harsh penal codes against the consumption, production, and distribution of the drug, a black market is still flourishing. Street names for cocaine include coke, snow, and blow, among others.