Cocaine (benzoylmethylecgonine) is a crystalline alkaloid obtained from the leaves of the coca plant. The term comes from coca in addition to the alkaloid suffix - ine - forming the word cocaine. Cocaine acts as a stimulant in the central nervous system as well as an appetite suppressant. In the synapse it is a serotonin - norepinephrine - dopamine re-uptake inhibitor causing elation and a sense of heightened sensory awareness. Given its action in the synapse, cocaine is potentially addictive. The possession, cultivation and distribution of cocaine is illegal for non-medicinal and non-government sanctioned purposes in nearly every country worldwide. Despite this fact and harsh penalties for possession or distribution, the worldwide use of cocaine is widespread.
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(2011). Cocaine. In: Goldstein, S., Naglieri, J.A. (eds) Encyclopedia of Child Behavior and Development. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-79061-9_579
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