alcohol + cocaine

Alcohol + cocaine refers to the concurrent use of ethanol (alcohol) and cocaine. When these substances are used together, the liver metabolizes them into a unique psychoactive compound called cocaethylene. Cocaethylene has similar stimulant properties to cocaine but is more cardiotoxic and has a longer half-life, leading to prolonged and intensified psychoactive effects compared to either drug alone[1][2][3]. The combination increases dopamine and serotonin levels by blocking their reuptake in the brain, which enhances euphoria but also raises risks for impulsivity, aggression, anxiety, depression, heart attack, stroke, seizures, liver damage, and sudden death[1][2][3][4]. The combined use is associated with higher rates of polysubstance abuse disorders and significantly greater risk of overdose or fatal cardiovascular events than using either substance alone[2][5]. There are no pharmaceutical developers or manufacturers for this combination; it arises from recreational or illicit co-use.

Other names

cocaethylene precursorconcurrent alcohol and cocaine useethanol + cocaine