Which organ is most affected by cocaine abuse?

Cocaine abuse has a profound impact on various organs, but it is particularly damaging to the heart. The heart is most affected due to the stimulant nature of cocaine, which increases heart rate and blood pressure, leading to significant cardiovascular risks. Chronic use can result in arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other serious heart conditions. Cocaine causes vasoconstriction, which restricts blood flow to the heart muscle, increasing the likelihood of ischemic events.

Though cocaine does affect other organs, such as the brain, where it alters neurotransmitter levels and can lead to addiction, cognitive deficits, and other neurological issues, its acute and chronic effects on the cardiovascular system are among the most severe and immediately life-threatening. Thus, the heart's vulnerability to the pharmacological effects of cocaine underscores why it is the most affected organ in cases of abuse.