The Present and Future
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The Cardiovascular Effects of Cocaine

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2017.05.014Get rights and content
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Abstract

Cocaine is the leading cause for drug–abuse-related visits to emergency departments, most of which are due to cardiovascular complaints. Through its diverse pathophysiological mechanisms, cocaine exerts various adverse effects on the cardiovascular system, many times with grave results. Described here are the varied cardiovascular effects of cocaine, areas of controversy, and therapeutic options.

Key Words

acute myocardial infarction
beta-blockers
cardiomyopathy
cocaine cardiotoxicity
drug addiction

Abbreviations and Acronyms

AD
aortic dissection
BP
blood pressure
ECG
electrocardiogram
HF
heart failure
LV
left ventricular
MI
myocardial infarction
NO
nitrous oxide
VF
ventricular fibrillation

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The authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose.

Listen to this manuscript's audio summary by JACC Editor-in-Chief Dr. Valentin Fuster.

© 2017 by the American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier.