Cocaine’s chronic effects on the vessel (Fig. 1, upper box) 10,23,24 consist of repeated endothelial damage leading to premature and severe atherosclerosis in various organs 10,19. Sympathomimetic effects generate a rise of heart rate, blood pressure and myocardial contractility, which enhance myocardial oxygen demand, whereas myocardial oxygen supply is decreased by coronary vasoconstriction and enhanced… Continue reading American Heritage Dictionary Entry: acute