Cocaine has several forms. The types of cocaine in general are:
Basic (aka "freebase") - In 1886 there were actually coca-cigars that were smoked to get the desired intoxication. The freebase or "crack" cocaine is usually smoked but there are other methods of getting it into the system. It works extremely fast and is highly addictive. The drug gives a false sense of power and well being. Truly a high that is very short lived. The user then needs a "hit" (more cocaine) to regain the feeling. The drug is so highly addictive that addicts can remain high for over three days before "crashing". All regard to the things that matter in their lives become second to getting their next "hit".
Chewing leaves - this was actually the original way that cocaine was used and how the cocaine effects were found. South Americans were chewing on the leaves hundreds of years ago. The leaves are also made into tea and is supposedly good medicinally for stomach upset. While it seems to give better effects over all with less side effects than coffee, it is a scary road to go down as the addiction level is so high and hard to overcome.
Sulphate - (pasta, basa or paste) is very low grade that appeals to lower social classes. The paste that is made is usually smoked with tobacco.
Hydrochoride - (crystal) This is a white powder with no odor. It has a bitter taste but is usually snorted. The absorption rate is not good and making it is a very complicated process.
