Crack provides an intense high almost instantly - in as little as 4 to 6 seconds - but it lasts only 5 to 7 minutes. The high is always followed by a low, so unpleasant that the user will do almost anything to acquire more crack.
Crack is almost instantly addicting. The social consequences of crack use include personal, social, legal, financial and other problems. Most crack users are also addicted to alcohol, tranquilizers and other drugs, which they use to relieve the unpleasant side effects of crack.
Crack stimulates the central nervous system, which can have dangerous, even deadly effects on the body. The vapors from heated crack are absorbed through the lungs and reach the brain within seconds. Crack can cause the respiratory system to fail. Often, crack users ignore health problems because crack dulls the pain, and users may ignore conditions that require medical attention.
Crack can overpower the mind and the body. Users become trapped in a vicious cycle of addiction. During this cycle they experience euphoria, followed by a strong craving for more crack to overcome the deep depression and paranoia that accompanies withdrawal. Users usually repeat this cycle until their wallet and/or body give out.
Crack is an illegal substance. If caught using or selling it, you could face fines and jail time.