Cocaine

CH. NO. Mpt. 98° C. Alkaloidal base, active principle of the cocoa-leaf. It crystallizes in colorle prisms. It is sold as the hydrochloric acid salt and is used for a local anæsthetic; "knock-out drops," which have been given in drinks for purpose of robbery, are a solution of this substance. When applied to a raw surface or mucous membrane, or injected beneath the skin, it abolishes temporarily the sensibility of the part, and permits the performance of unimportant operations. It is also used to relieve pain which is limited to small Its habitual use leads to impairment of the functions areas. IMG:content-0920.jpg:[blocks in formation] of the nervous system and lo of the moral sense; the habit once acquired is more dangerous than that of any other narcotic.