First Use of Cocaine may be Detected in Biofluids

Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant drug that's made from leaves of the coca plant that are native to South America. It produces short-term euphoric conditions that can produce potentially dangerous physical effects, including high heart rate and increased blood pressure.

It's estimated that as many as 2 million Americans use the drug annually according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, and this includes users who may choose to snort, inject or smoke the drug. Yet a recent study shows how cocaine can permanently damage proteins found in the body. However, new laboratory tests could help potentially detect the drug in biofluids for weeks or even months after the drug's use, helping determine any long-term side effects of use for certain individuals.

According to Anthony P. DeCaprio and colleagues, long-term use of cocaine is linked to depression, breathing problems, kidney diseases and sudden death. Though researchers knew that extended use of this stimulant could alter proteins in the body, exact details regarding the changes were unknown until this time.

The crew discovered through laboratory tests that cocaine breaks down and proteins later appear in the users' biofluids for weeks or even months after the drug is taken for the first time.

Researchers note that these findings could dramatically expand the window for determining past cocaine use and how soon it may be detectable. New details on cocaine metabolism may also contribute to a wider stance regarding the drug's effects and health issues to come later in life.

More information regarding the study can be found via the journal Chemical Research Toxicology.