NCJ Number
142063
Journal
International Journal on Drug Policy Volume: 3 Issue: 4 Dated: (1992) Pages: 186-189
Date Published
1992
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The nature and extent of cocaine use in Rotterdam, Netherlands was studied using data from 1,161 cocaine users, 110 of whom completed a questionnaire and 1,051 of whom were users about whom the respondents provided information.
Abstract
Findings revealed that cocaine use occurs among people of all socioeconomic and educational levels. The research population was about 75 percent male and 25 percent female and had an average age of 29 years. Methods of ingestion varied much more widely than for other drugs and included sniffing, smoking, basing, "chasing the dragon," injecting, smearing on gums or genitals, and swallowing. More than half used sniffing as their main consumption method; one fourth used cocaine in more than one way. Results also suggested that cocaine has two different faces, depending on the method of use. Sniffing can apparently be done without too many negative personal or social consequences. However, basing, chasing the dragon, and injecting usually lead quickly to compulsive consumption and the problems associated with it. Increasing numbers of cocaine users are likely to seek drug treatment. In addition, crack cocaine has a strongly compulsive effect, and measures are needed to prevent it from becoming a major problem in Europe. 11 references