Peruvian Cocaine

1. Peruvian Cocaine Description

Peruvian cocaine refers to cocaine that originates from Peru, which is one of the world’s top producers of coca leaf—the raw material used to manufacture cocaine. Cocaine from Peru is often transported in various forms, including coca paste (also known as paco or bazuco), cocaine hydrochloride (powder cocaine), and sometimes as base cocaine (“crack”).

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2. Composition

Cocaine is derived from the coca plant (Erythroxylum coca). The active compound is:

• Cocaine hydrochloride (C17H21NO4): A water-soluble, crystalline powder that is typically snorted or injected.

Illicit cocaine is often adulterated with substances such as:

• Lidocaine (a local anesthetic)
• Levamisole (a veterinary dewormer)
• Sugars or powders (e.g., baking soda, talc)

Purity varies but can range from 30% to over 90%, with street cocaine often being much less pure.

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3. Usage

Common routes of administration include:

• Snorting (intranasal)
• Injecting (intravenous, with water)
• Smoking (if processed into base form or crack)
• Oral (rare; lower bioavailability)

Illicit Usage Context:

• Used as a stimulant to increase energy, alertness, and feelings of euphoria.
• Often used recreationally at parties or socially, or by individuals seeking increased mental focus or physical performance (though this is unsafe and unsustainable).

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4. Dosage (Illicit/Recreational Context)

There is no “safe” dosage, but general patterns include:

• Low dose: 10–30 mg (mild stimulation)
• Moderate dose: 50–100 mg (euphoria, increased energy)
• High dose: >100 mg (significant cardiovascular risks, psychosis)

Frequent users may take multiple lines (50–100 mg each) every few hours. This is dangerous due to tolerance, addiction, and overdose risk.

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5. Effects

Short-Term Effects:

• Euphoria, increased energy, mental alertness
• Dilated pupils, increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Suppressed appetite
• Risk of aggression or paranoia

Long-Term Effects:

• Addiction (severe psychological dependence)
• Cardiovascular damage (heart attack, stroke)
• Nasal septum damage (from snorting)
• Psychosis and cognitive decline

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6. Legal Status

Cocaine is classified as a Schedule I or II controlled substance in most countries, including under UN conventions. Possession, production, or trafficking can lead to severe legal penalties.

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7. Harm Reduction Advice

If someone is using cocaine despite the risks:

• Never use alone (overdose risk)
• Test for adulterants (some services offer reagent testing kits)
• Avoid mixing with alcohol or other drugs
• Stay hydrated and monitor your heart rate
• Seek medical help if experiencing chest pain, anxiety, or hallucinations