Management of cocaine-induced cardiovascular complications.

Abstract Recent increase in cocaine abuse and the supply of more potent “crack” cocaine has led to the recognition of a number of complications from its use. Cocaine induces generalized vasoconstriction, which could involve multiple organ systems. Cardiovascular involvement includes: myocardial ischemia and infarction, bradyarrhythmias and tachyarrhythmias, cardiomyopathy, aortic dissection, and endocarditis. 1 Management of cocaine-induced complications, however, remains controversial. The present review discusses the recent developments in the management of cardiovascular complications of cocaine.