Cocaine is considered a narcotic in the United States. However, it is important to note there is a difference between a medical and legal narcotic. Below is an explanation of the differences between a legal and medical narcotic:
What Is A Medical Narcotic?
Cocaine is not classified as a medical narcotic. Medical narcotics work by changing the way pain is perceived by the brain. Narcotics are typically reserved for people who suffer from severe pain. They block feelings of pain. Narcotics are typically only used for three to four months. They most also be used under the supervision of a physician.
What Is A Legal Narcotic?
The legal definition of a narcotic is a drug that dulls the senses. Drugs that cannot be sold, transported or possessed without a dentist or physician's prescription are also classified as narcotics.
Cocaine has a Schedule II drug classification under the Controlled Substances Act. This means cocaine has limited medical usage and a high potential for abuse. Most people who abuse cocaine end up developing an addiction.
Can Cocaine Be Used For Medical Purposes?
In the past, cocaine was used as a local anesthetic and a medicine. However, medical usage of cocaine decreased once health care professionals realized it was very addictive. Some physicians still use cocaine to help stop patients' nosebleeds. It can also be used to control pain before minor nose surgery.
Additionally, cocaine can be used to numb the lining of the throat, mouth and nose. It typically numbs the area within one or two minutes after it is applied. However, because better products have been developed, cocaine is rarely used for medical purposes in the United States.
Dangers Of Cocaine Use
There are a number of dangers associated with cocaine use. Cocaine abusers are more likely to develop mental disorders. They are also at a higher risk for stroke. In fact, cocaine is the drug seen most often in patients who suffer a drug-related stroke.
Classification of Cocaine
Cocaine fits the legal definition of a narcotic, but it is not considered a medical narcotic. Cocaine abuse can also be dangerous, which is why it is seldom used for medicinal purposes.
