Anesthetic management of the cocaine abuse patient

Cocaine is an extremely addictive local anesthetic which can produce stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system due to the inhibition of catecholamine reuptake at the synaptic junction. Because of the rapid metabolism of cocaine, the probability of a patient presenting to the operating room with acute intoxication is unlikely. However, the physiological effects of chronic cocaine abuse on various organ systems have an impact on anesthesia management. A preoperative review of major organ systems is essential. Selective beta 1 antagonists (i.e., esmolol) may need to be titrated with a direct vasodilator (i.e., nitroprusside) to manage hypertension and tachycardia. The nonselective beta antagonist effects of labetalol are much more potent than its alpha antagonist effects, which could result in unopposed alpha vasoconstriction. In addition, the equal affinity of the alpha adrenergic antagonist, phentolamine, for both alpha 1 and alpha 2 receptors may result in significant tachycardia. Nitroglycerin has also been used in management of hypertension associated with coronary vasoconstriction. There is controversy regarding management of ventricular dysrhythmias and asystole. Lidocaine is an amide local anesthetic that may have addictive effects, in the presence of cocaine, which may lower the seizure threshold. In addition, the use of epinephrine to treat asystole is controversial in the presence of a state of excess catecholamines induced by cocaine. General anesthesia may include barbiturates, nitrous oxide, and opioids. Inhalational agents may be used with caution due to their myocardial depressant effects. Regional anesthesia may be a good choice if coagulopathies and hypovolemia are corrected before the procedure.