Cocaethylene

Cocaethylene is a psychoactive recreational drug and pharmacological substance that is formed in the liver when cocaine and ethanol are present together. It is known to possess unique pharmacological properties that distinguish it from cocaine and ethanol when taken separately.

Pharmacology

Cocaethylene works by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine in the brain, similar to the mechanism of action of cocaine. However, it is less potent than cocaine in this respect. It also has a longer half-life than cocaine, which means it remains in the body for a longer period of time, potentially increasing the duration of drug-induced effects.

Effects

The effects of cocaethylene in the human body are similar to those of cocaine, but are more intense and longer-lasting. These effects include euphoria, increased energy, and increased sociability. However, cocaethylene also carries a significantly higher risk of immediate death than cocaine. This is due to its potential to cause harmful effects on the heart, such as myocardial infarction (heart attack) and cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat).

Risks and Health Implications

The use of cocaethylene carries significant health risks. It is more cardiotoxic than cocaine, and its use has been associated with a higher risk of sudden death. Cocaethylene has been implicated in many cases of cocaine-related deaths, particularly in individuals who were also consuming alcohol.

Legal Status

The legal status of cocaethylene varies by country. In many jurisdictions, it is classified as a controlled substance under the same laws as cocaine.

See Also

• Cocaine
• Ethanol
• Recreational drug use
• Pharmacology