Why is cocaine still used in certain medical applications despite its risks?

Cocaine is still used in certain medical applications primarily because of its effectiveness as an anesthetic. In medical settings, especially in otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat), cocaine is used for its local anesthetic properties. It works by blocking nerve signals in a specific area, which can provide pain relief during procedures. This is particularly useful in surgeries of the nasal passages and for other minor surgical interventions.

Furthermore, cocaine has vasoconstrictive properties, which means it can narrow blood vessels, helping to reduce bleeding during surgery. These unique characteristics make it effective for specific medical uses despite the known risks and potential for abuse associated with the drug.

In contrast, factors like the popularity of cocaine in recreational use or its availability in herbal forms do not justify its continued medical application. While the rapid onset of action may be a contributing factor to its use, the primary reason remains its effectiveness as an anesthetic in specific clinical situations.