Final answer:
Cocaine ingestion poses significant cardiovascular risks, including increased blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes, partly due to its vasoconstrictive effects. The drug's impact on brain dopamine pathways leads to addiction and cravings. Adulterants in illicit cocaine heighten its toxicity and associated health risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cocaine, a potent stimulant, has several health risks associated with its use, particularly concerning cardiovascular health. When ingested, cocaine induces vasoconstriction, the narrowing of blood vessels, which increases blood pressure as the reduced vessel diameter makes it harder for blood to pass through. This heightened blood pressure may lead to serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, cardiac arrhythmia, and sudden cardiac death. Additionally, cocaine use contributes to an increased risk of stroke due to the combination of increased blood pressure and the potential for blood vessel narrowing and damage.
The heart rate typically increases shortly after cocaine use, adding further strain to the cardiovascular system. Importantly, the adulterants commonly found in illicitly-sold cocaine may introduce additional toxicity, further exacerbating heart-related risks. Chronic cocaine usage leads to addiction, influenced by the drug's action on the brain's dopamine pathways, leading to a cycle of pleasure and intense cravings during withdrawal. Cocaine is also associated with other health risks, including an increased likelihood of infectious diseases and direct injury to organs like the lungs when smoked.