A drug derived from the leaves of a shrub in South America that has an intoxicating effect on the body and can result in dependency if frequently used. Cocaine is used medically as a local anesthetic.
Note: Cocaine use constitutes a major drug problem in the United States.
cocaine co·caine (kō-kān', kō'kān')
n.
A colorless or white crystalline alkaloid extracted from coca leaves, sometimes used as a local anesthetic especially for the eyes, nose, or throat and widely used as an illicit drug for its euphoric and stimulating effects.
| cocaine (kō-kān') Pronunciation Key
A colorless or white crystalline alkaloid extracted from coca leaves. Cocaine is sometimes used in medicine as a local anesthetic, especially for the eyes, nose, or throat. It is also widely used as an illicit drug for its euphoric and stimulating effects. Chemical formula: C17H21NO4. |