The physiological changes from cocaine may be accompanied by which of the following?

The physiological changes from cocaine may be accompanied by which of the following?

• A. Seizures
• B. Cardiac arrest
• C. Stroke
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Cocaine markedly increases sympathetic nervous system activity, which can lead to a range of serious complications. The surge in catecholamines causes vasoconstriction, fast heart rate, and high blood pressure, setting the stage for multiple organ problems. Seizures can happen because of heightened CNS stimulation and potential electrolyte or metabolic disturbances at higher doses. Cardiac arrest may occur from dangerous heart rhythm changes or massive coronary vasospasm leading to ischemia. Strokes can result from sudden cerebral vasoconstriction and hypertensive spikes, sometimes with accompanying clotting processes. Because these different pathways can be triggered by cocaine, all of the above are possible outcomes, making “all of the above” the best choice.

Cocaine markedly increases sympathetic nervous system activity, which can lead to a range of serious complications. The surge in catecholamines causes vasoconstriction, fast heart rate, and high blood pressure, setting the stage for multiple organ problems. Seizures can happen because of heightened CNS stimulation and potential electrolyte or metabolic disturbances at higher doses. Cardiac arrest may occur from dangerous heart rhythm changes or massive coronary vasospasm leading to ischemia. Strokes can result from sudden cerebral vasoconstriction and hypertensive spikes, sometimes with accompanying clotting processes. Because these different pathways can be triggered by cocaine, all of the above are possible outcomes, making “all of the above” the best choice.