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Hi . I Took Cocaine About 3 Or 4 Times

Posted on Wed, 3 Jul 2019

Question: Hi . I took cocaine about 3 or 4 times in the space of 2 or 3 months. It was snorted a gram at most each time. Can this cause accelerated autophagy? Can this cause a increase in cortisol levels in the brain? I made a mistake somebody I respect offered me it in their car after soccer and two or 3 times with them in their house after . I didn't realise how dangerous it is and my friend has a addiction from Alchohol to this. I'm just hoping I have done any damage to myself from taking this. I didn't take anymore than that and it was once and then a few weeks later and few weeks later. It's says on the Internet that it can raise cortisol levels in the brain even if only taking a few times. High levels in mice was found to cause accerated autophagy in the brain. Just would like to know the truth. Thanks XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
I don't think there was any damage.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to 'Ask a Doctor' service.

I have read your query and here is my advice.

It is true that acute administration of cocaine may increase the levels of cortisol.

This does not mean necessarily that there is brain damage since the presumed increase of cortisol may have been episodic.

Only three or four times of cocaine use in the utmost distance of time should not cause any brain damage (unless overdosed).

In conclusion, I don't think you suffered any brain damage, anyway, stay away from drug use or abuse in order to avoid any harm to your health or life.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.
Kind regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee