For what purpose is a short plastic straw commonly used in cocaine use?

A short plastic straw is commonly used in cocaine use primarily for inhaling powdered cocaine. When users want to consume cocaine nasally (snorting), the short straw serves as a convenient tool that allows them to take in small, controlled amounts of the drug. The design of the straw helps focus the airflow, creating a more direct and efficient means to introduce the powdered substance into the nasal passages, facilitating its absorption into the bloodstream.

This method of ingestion is prevalent among users due to its simplicity and the immediate effects that can be felt. The use of a straw also reduces the amount of contact with the drug, which may serve to minimize the presence of contaminants that could be introduced from using other substances or implements. Thus, the primary function of the short plastic straw in this context is to aid in the inhalation of the powdered form of cocaine.