What is the difference between cocaine and caffeine?
Both caffeine and cocaine are stimulants that affect the nervous system. They make you feel more alert and improve your physical and mental capabilities. They do make you feel good, but the difference with cocaine is that it makes you feel too good. They are different in what they contain, how they are taken and how they are distributed.
What is cocaine?
Cocaine comes from the leaves of the cocoa plant. It is a crystalline tropane alkaloid that is both a stimulant and an anesthetic. It is legal to use cocaine in medicine, but other than that the production, possession and distribution of the substance are illegal and is regarded as a criminal offense. All governments have severe sanctions against its use for anything other than medicinal reasons. At one time Coca-Cola did have cocaine in its recipe, but with the passing of the Pure Food and Drug Act in the US, the recipe was changed to exclude it.
What is caffeine?
Caffeine comes mainly from coffee bean, but it is also found in other beans and the leaves and fruit of some other plants. It is a xanthenes alkaloid that acts as a natural pesticide to kill insects that feed on the plants. Humans consume caffeine in coffee, tea, soft drinks and other beverages that are made from plants that contain this substance. It acts on the nervous system as a psychoactive stimulant to prevent sleepiness and help you to remain alert. It is a legal substance in spite of its results,
How cocaine and caffeine differ
The effects that both cocaine and caffeine have on the nervous system are similar – they make you feel more alert. Cocaine, though, has additional effects because it is also an analgesic and an appetite suppressant. It is very addictive and those who consume it on a regular basis become anxious, paranoid and restless. Caffeine is generally safe, even though it is addictive, because people tend to develop a tolerance for it over time. Consuming excessive amounts can lead to restlessness , anxiety and the occurrence of heart palpitations.
Cocaine is an illegal substance although it is permissible for medicinal reasons. Caffeine is a legal substance and is found in coffee, tea and other beverages. It is also present in chocolate.
Moderation is important when it comes to the consumption of caffeine. Cocaine should not be consumed for other reasons than medicinal purposes. Both can have unpleasant results if you become addicted.
Summary
- Cocaine is an illegal substance but it can be used in the practice of medicine. It is a stimulant that causes alertness and an increase in physical and mental abilities, but it also brings with it a sense of euphoria. It is a highly addictive substance and overuse can lead to paranoia, anxiety and restlessness.
- Caffeine is a legal substance found in coffee and chocolate . It does bring about alertness but consuming too much of it can cause anxiety and nervousness.