Cocaine (Mucosal-Local)
DescriptionCocaine (KOE-kane) is a local anesthetic. It
is applied to certain areas of the body (for example, the nose, mouth, or
throat) to cause loss of feeling. This allows some kinds of examinations or
surgery to be done without causing pain.
Cocaine can cause psychological dependence (a strong desire to continue
using the medicine because of the ``high'" feeling it produces). This may
lead to cocaine abuse (more frequent use and/or use of larger amounts of cocaine)
and to an increased chance of serious side effects. Cocaine abuse has caused
death from heart or breathing failure.
Use of cocaine as a local anesthetic for an examination or surgery is not
likely to cause psychological dependence or other serious side effects. However,
if cocaine is absorbed into the body too quickly, serious side effects can
occur. Also, some people are especially sensitive to the effects of cocaine.
Unwanted effects may occur in these people even with small amounts of the
medicine. Before receiving cocaine as a local anesthetic, you should discuss
its use with your doctor.
Cocaine is applied only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.
It is available in the following dosage forms:
Mucosal-Local
-
Crystals (U.S. and Canada)
-
Solution (U.S.)
|
