Worse, these problems may occur even in people whose cocaine exposure is limited to occasional, recreational usage.
Cardiac Effects of Cocaine
Cocaine is a drug that inhibits the reuptake ofnorepinephrinein neurons throughout the body.
The exaggerated sympathetic nervous activity has profound effects on the cardiovascular system.
Verywell / Gary Ferster
It does this by causing constriction of the capillaries, thus reducing the blood flow to the heart muscle.
The cardiovascular system thus becomes extremely stressed.
Most cocaine-induced heart attacks occur within a few hours of using the drug.
While there are many causes of aortic dissection, in young people cocaine use is a prevalent cause.
Coronary Artery Aneurysm
Coronary artery aneurysms are balloon-like dilations of coronary arteries.
Myocarditis and Cardiomyopathy
Cocaine causesmyocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle.
Myocarditis can lead to damage of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy).
As a result,heart failuremay occur.
However, cocaine use complicates therapy in a few important ways.
Beta-Blockers
Beta-blockers should not be used in patients currently under the influence of cocaine.
This takes a critical treatment tool out of the doctors hands when they are dealing with a heart attack.
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