True or False: The half-life of cocaine is fairly long, leading to toxicity and the chance of acute intoxication.

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Prepare for the UCF HSC3147 Introduction to Pharmacology Test. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Enhance your exam readiness!

Cocaine has a relatively short half-life, typically ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on various factors including the route of administration and individual metabolism. This short duration of action means that while cocaine can produce intense and immediate effects, it does not remain in the system for long periods, which helps mitigate the risk of prolonged toxicity associated with longer-acting substances.

Moreover, while it is possible for acute intoxication to occur following its use, ephedrine or long-acting stimulant drugs usually present a greater risk of toxicity over an extended period. The rapid onset and clearance of cocaine mean that the effects are often felt quickly and can lead to repeated use in a short period, but the half-life itself does not contribute to any lasting toxicity in the same way that substances with longer half-lives might.

Understanding this pharmacokinetic profile provides insight into why the statement regarding the half-life of cocaine leading to toxicity and acute intoxication is considered false.