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October Tips of the Month: Tips for
Teens About Crack and Cocaine
Cocaine is a white powder that comes from
the leaves of the South American Coca plant. Cocaine is either
"snorted" through the nasal passages or injected intravenously.
Users call it by a variety of names, including coke, C, snow,
blow, toot, nose candy, flake, and The Lady. Cocaine belongs to
a class of drugs known as stimulants, which tend to give a
temporary illusion of limitless power and energy that leaves the
user feeling depressed, edgy, and craving more. Crack is a form
of cocaine that has been chemically altered so that it can be
smoked. cocaine and crack are highly addictive. This addiction
can erode physical and mental health and can become so strong
that these drugs dominate all aspects of an addict's life.
Cocaine and crack use has
been a contributing factor in a number of drownings, car
crashes, falls, burns and suicides.
Some users spend hundreds
or thousands of dollars on cocaine and crack each week and will
do anything to support their habit. Many turn to drug
selling, prostitution, or other crimes. If you or someone
you know has a drug problem, there is help available. Talk to a
school counselor, a friend, or a parent.
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