KATP channels protect against cocaine-induced death. (a) Compared to wild type (WT), knockout (KO) of KATP channels (Kir6.2-KO) produced survival disadvantage after single injection of cocaine (100mgkg−1 i.p.; P < 0.01). Conversely, pretreatment with the KATP channel opener pinacidil (pin, 15mgkg−1, i.p.) abrogated mortality in WT (P < 0.05). Cohort size provided in parentheses. (b) Aggravated mortality trends following repeated cocaine abuse (100mgkg−1, i.p. once daily) in Kir6.2-KO vs WT (P = 0.008). Pretreatment with pinacidil (15mgkg−1, i.p., 30 min before each cocaine injection) abrogated cumulative mortality with improved long-term survival (P < 0.01) over WT (without pinacidil). Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson’s χ2 or log-rank tests as appropriate.