Cocaine in the mouth
Cocaine in the mouth
What you should know
Cocaine is one of the best known and most discussed substances worldwide. This drug, which is extracted from the coca plant, is known for its stimulating effects and is consumed in various forms. While snorting and smoking cocaine are among the most common methods, there are other ways, such as rubbing it into the gums or holding it in the mouth, which are less well known but still widespread.
The oral consumption of cocaine, i.e. placing coke in the mouth, offers specific effects that some users make targeted use of. This method allows the substance to be absorbed through the mucous membranes and leads to an immediate but often shorter effect. The special features and risks of consuming cocaine via the oral mucosa are discussed in more detail below.
What does coke in the mouth mean?
"Coke in the mouth" describes the consumption of cocaine by placing it in the mouth, often between the gums and cheek. The substance is quickly absorbed via the oral mucosa, which is well supplied with blood, resulting in a rapid effect and local anaesthetic.
In comparison: sniffing leads to a longer, more intense effect via the nasal mucosa, while inhalation (e.g. smoking crack) offers an even faster effect through the lungs. Mouth consumption is in between in terms of effect, is easier to conceal and the numbness can be appealing to users.
Why do consumers use this method?
Users often take cocaine orally for specific reasons. One of the main reasons is the rapid effect, which is made possible by the good blood flow to the oral mucosa. This method leads to immediate absorption and a rapid onset of effects, providing a short but intense high.
Another advantage is discretion: placing cocaine in the mouth is less conspicuous than snorting or smoking. This makes this method particularly attractive in public or social situations where inconspicuous consumption is important.
Typical areas of application are parties, clubs or other social events where consumption should take place without attracting much attention. The numbing sensation in the mouth can also serve as confirmation of the mode of action and is deliberately sought by some users.
Physiological effects on the oral mucosa
The consumption of cocaine via the oral mucosa has noticeable effects on the health of the oral region. The drug causes an immediate numbing of the mucous membranes, which typically lasts from a few minutes to an hour. This numbness is a result of the local anesthetic effect of cocaine, which is also known to occur in medical applications.
In the long term, however, repeated exposure to cocaine can cause considerable damage. As the drug constricts the blood vessels, the blood flow in the affected areas is reduced. This impairs the healing of the mucous membrane and can lead to chronic inflammation, ulcers and even gum recession. The reduced saliva production caused by consumption can also increase the risk of tooth decay and other dental diseases, as the natural protection provided by saliva is missing.
Health risks and side effects
The consumption of cocaine via the oral mucosa poses considerable health risks, particularly for oral health. In the long term, direct contact can lead to receding gums, chronic inflammation and a weakened oral mucosa. The vasoconstrictive effect of cocaine, which constricts the blood vessels, reduces blood flow and makes it more difficult for tissue damage to heal. In addition, the reduced saliva production favors the development of caries and other dental diseases.
In addition to the local damage, there are also serious general physical risks. Regular consumption can trigger cardiovascular problems such as cardiac arrhythmia and high blood pressure. Uncontrolled ingestion, even through the oral mucosa, carries the risk of overdose, which can be life-threatening. Overall, oral cocaine consumption can cause a variety of health problems that affect not only the mouth but the entire body.
Mental and physical dependence
The consumption of cocaine via the oral mucosa can contribute significantly to the development of psychological and physical dependence. Due to the rapid absorption of the substance through the mucous membranes, users experience an immediate rush that is accompanied by intense but brief feelings of happiness. This type of quick reward can be highly addictive, as the brain quickly develops a craving for the repeated experience.
The risks of uncontrolled use are particularly high. As the effects wear off relatively quickly via the oral mucosa, but for a shorter time than with other forms of consumption, users often feel the urge to repeat or increase the dose. This increases the risk of habituation and tolerance build-up, where larger and larger quantities are needed to achieve the desired effect. Ultimately, this can lead to a vicious cycle in which physical health, mental health and social life are severely impaired.