What is the difference between Cocaine and Amphetamine?

Cocaine is a stimulant narcotic from the coca plant, usually in the form of a white powder. This drug is usually taken by users by insufflating it through their nose. Cocaine works by stimulating the central nervous system and causes a feeling of euphoria. It can also be used to reduce someone's appetite. The use or sale of cocaine without any authorization from the concerned authority is considered illegal.

This is because the use of cocaine can lead to addiction, and it also has the potential of affecting our mesolimbic system. Amphetamine, on the other hand, offers some of the benefits of cocaine. It can cause the feeling of euphoria, and can also lessen the levels of fatigue in an individual. Just like cocaine, amphetamine can suppress one's appetite. As a result of this, this drug is used for weight loss. One of their differences is that amphetamine has lower efficacy than cocaine. Cocaine has a lower half-life compared to amphetamine.

Cocaine comes in a crystal-like form, and drug users usually snort it up into their nasal cavities. It is obtained from the cocoa plant. It mostly stimulates the Central Nervous System, which causes a euphoric feeling of being powerful and on top of the world until the person crashes after an hour and needs more cocaine. It is most definitely addictive and extremely dangerous.

This danger is why it is illegal. Amphetamines, on the other hand, can be hazardous if misused or abused. However, it has been shown to perform miracles for those who are suffering from ADHD and narcolepsy. Under the appropriate care of a physician, these drugs are proven to be beneficial to treat these disorders. Another interesting bit of information is that cocaine has a half-life of only one hour, while amphetamines last from twelve to thirteen hours. It should also be noted that long term abuse of these drugs may result in a heart attack.