Millenium Health Tips

Added Danger: Cocaethylene

When people mix cocaine with alcohol, are compounding the danger each one of these drugs and, unwittingly, in their own bodies perform a complex chemical experiment. Several NIDA-funded researchers have found that combining cocaine and alcohol use, the human liver manufactures a third substance, cocaine ethylene, that intensifies cocaine’s euphoric effects and potentially increase the risk of sudden death.

Treatment

The widespread abuse of cocaine has stimulated extensive efforts to develop treatment programs for this type of abuse.

A major research priorities of NIDA is to find a drug to block or greatly reduce the effects of cocaine, to be used as part of a comprehensive treatment program. Some of the NIDA-funded researchers are also studying drugs that help relieve the craving for the drug (“craving”) often experienced by people undergoing treatment for cocaine addiction. Are currently investigating the safety and efficacy of several drugs that could be used in treatment for cocaine addiction.

In addition to medications, behavioral interventions, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy can be effective in reducing drug consumption. Providing the optimal combination of treatment and services for each person is essential to successful outcomes.

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