Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What is a potential consequence of chronic cocaine use once the drug is stopped?

1. Severe depression

2. Anxiety

3. A "crash" related to norepinephrine depletion

4. Increased energy

The correct answer is: A "crash" related to norepinephrine depletion

When chronic cocaine use ceases, one of the significant physiological effects is the depletion of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in arousal and alertness. Cocaine stimulates the release of norepinephrine, leading to heightened energy and euphoria during use. However, when the drug is stopped, the body can experience a "crash" as it struggles to readjust to the absence of the drug. This "crash" is characterized by an overwhelming sense of fatigue, lethargy, and a lack of motivation, which stems from the sudden drop in norepinephrine levels after prolonged stimulation. The body has become dependent on the artificial elevation of this neurotransmitter due to cocaine's influence, and its absence can lead to a shortfall that significantly impacts mood and energy levels. While severe depression and anxiety might also arise as withdrawal symptoms, the immediate physiological response upon cessation particularly highlights the depletion of norepinephrine and its effects, making this aspect crucial for understanding the consequences of stopping chronic cocaine use. Increased energy would not be a reasonable outcome following the cessation of cocaine; rather, users generally experience the opposite.