Cocaine. Line of the class A drug cocaine and a razor blade on a mirror. The razor blade was used to cut the cocaine into a fine powder and form it into a line for snorting. Cocaine is an alkaloid drug obtained from the coca plant (Erythroxylon coca). The powdered drug is taken by snorting into the nose where it is absorbed across the nasal membrane into the bloodstream. It causes feelings of great exhilaration and energy. Prolonged use damages the nasal passages and may lead to anxiety, paranoia and dependency. Overdose of cocaine can result in cardiac arrhythmias and seizures, and death.