Final answer:
Acute cocaine poisoning can occur due to the drug's vasoconstrictive effects and the presence of adulterants, which both increase the risk of cardiovascular complications and toxicity.
Step-by-step explanation:
A reason for acute cocaine poisoning is the drug's ability to cause vasoconstriction, which increases blood pressure and can have severe cardiovascular consequences. Cocaine is a potent stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, leading to increased levels of this neurotransmitter in the brain. The short-term pleasurable effects can drive individuals to use cocaine in high doses or repeated use in a short period, which may result in acute toxicity. Moreover, cocaine is often adulterated with substances like local anesthetics and other additives, which can further contribute to its toxicity and increase the risk of acute poisoning.