Which of the following is NOT typically a symptom of cocaine use?

Answer: A — Decreased heart rate

Decreased heart rate is not typically associated with cocaine use. In fact, cocaine is a powerful stimulant that increases the release of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to heightened alertness, increased energy, and elevated cardiovascular activity. Users commonly experience an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, making it counterintuitive for a decrease to occur. Cocaine also causes vasoconstriction, which is the narrowing of blood vessels, and can heighten the senses, making common stimuli feel more intense. These physiological effects are consistent with stimulant drug responses, in contrast to the calming effects associated with depressants that might lead to a decrease in heart rate. Understanding these symptoms helps to categorize cocaine use correctly within the spectrum of drug effects.