Topic > History of Crack Cocaine - 772

Crack cocaine has been popular since the 1970s and mid-1980s. Crack cocaine is not a new drug; this drug is obtained from the coca plant which grows mainly in South America. For many years, the native Indians of South America chewed the leaves to develop strength and greater energy. In the 1800s, cocaine was isolated from its leaves and used as a medicinal drug. Towards the end of the 19th century it was used as an anesthetic and to avoid surgical haemorrhages. Over the next century, people recognized crack as an addictive narcotic, and the drug's non-medical use was stopped by the Harrison Narcotics Act in 1914 ("How Does Crack Work?"). Powdered cocaine is heated and a solid material insulates the hot assortment crack. Next, it is removed, dried and cut into “rocks” (Streetdrugs). Crack cocaine gets its name from the popping sound it makes when boiled. Since coca trees grow mainly in South America, it is very easy to produce crack, and many statistics show that the United States and Canada are the countries with the largest number of drug addicts. Crack cocaine is also considered a stimulant because it increases the action of the central nervous system and accelerates the metabolism resulting in increased energy and alertness. Since it is a stimulant and a narcotic, once a person takes it, they crave it even more. Taking crack cocaine produces a sense of euphoria and well-being (University of Maryland). The symptoms of crack are both physical and psychological. Physical and psychological withdrawal begins if the addict misses crack. Once he takes the drug, his tolerance level increases; takes larger amounts of the drug each time to achieve the desired effects. Psychological indications include the following: excessive thoughts about purchasing crack cocaine, constant cravings… half of paper… I don't know who pays addicts for both drug rehab treatments. Educators in drug education programs encourage and present information in a way that convinces the public not to take drugs. Educators present their presentations by connecting them to real-life situations (“The Narconon Drug Education Program”). The drug alters the function and structure of living tissue. Crack causes a person to be hyperactive, alert, feel “good,” speed up the metabolism, etc. However, these temporary “good” feelings cause death, nausea, vomiting, respiratory hemorrhage, and more. However, there are many rehabilitation centers for abusers and doctors or rehabilitation counselors begin the treatments of patients once they have undergone them. We must avoid taking crack and cocaine and help those who abuse them by pushing them into detox centers.