Cocaine Overdose: Signs, Symptoms & Treatment

Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only, and does not replace expert medical or mental health advice. Cocaine overdose is a medical emergency, so call 9-1-1 in the U.S. or your local emergency number immediately.

If you think someone is overdosing on cocaine right now, act fast:

• Call 911.
• Stay with them until help arrives.
• Give naloxone (Narcan) if you have it. Cocaine is often mixed with fentanyl. Naloxone helps if opioids are involved, and it will not hurt them if opioids are not involved.
• If they feel very hot, cool them down - loosen clothing, use a cool cloth, move them somewhere cooler.
• If they are having a seizure, protect their head. Do not hold them down or restrain them.

Under California's Good Samaritan law, people who call 911 for an overdose are protected from arrest or prosecution for drug possession or being under the influence. Do not let fear of legal trouble stop you from calling.

Cocaine is a powerful, addictive substance, widely used for its stimulating qualities - for a high, energy, and focus. However, cocaine is also a dangerous substance - with a high risk of misuse, dependence, and even overdose.

In this article, we are going to understand what a cocaine overdose looks like and what steps you can take to protect your or your loved one’s safety.

Cocaine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that is made from the leaves of the coca plant, commonly found in South America. It produces a sense of euphoria, energy, and focus.

Cocaine is a Schedule II substance in the U.S., which means it comes with a risk of misuse and dependence, too. With these comes the risk of overdose as well.

Consuming too much cocaine can lead to an overdose - which presents as:

• Confusion
• Aggressive behavior
• Paranoia
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Very high body temperature
• Irregular heartbeat
• Seizures.

In severe cases, it can lead to a heart attack, stroke, coma, and even death. As per recent reports, cocaine-related deaths increased from 0.9 per 100,000 population to 1.6 per 100,000 population; however, recently, they have come down to 0.78 per 100,000 population - which means that the risk is still too high to ignore.

If you suspect cocaine overdose signs, please understand that this is a medical emergency. Call 9-1-1 in the U.S. or your local emergency number immediately.

You do not have to use opioids to be at risk of an opioid overdose. Illicit cocaine, and crack, can be contaminated with fentanyl, often without anybody knowing or suspecting it. Keep naloxone (Narcan) on hand and make sure those around you know how to use it. It is safe to administer even if no opioids are involved, but it does not treat a stimulant overdose, so always call 9-1-1 as well.

Please Note: Under California's Good Samaritan Law, people who call 911 for an overdose are protected from arrest or prosecution for drug possession or being under the influence. Do not let fear of legal trouble stop you from calling.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reported that cocaine use in itself can lead to serious consequences, but the increase in incidents of lacing cocaine with highly potent fentanyl and other related opioids has significantly contributed to the rising drug overdose deaths.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine or heroin. Illicit manufacturers have found ways to combine fentanyl with other drugs, such as cocaine, for a stronger substance. However, you might be consuming something more lethal than cocaine itself without knowing.

This is why carrying fentanyl test strips with you can be a step to reduce the danger, even if it is not foolproof.

Some signs of fentanyl overdose are:

• Pinpoint pupils
• Cold, clammy skin
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of consciousness.

If you suspect any of these signs, it can be an indication of a fentanyl overdose. Please call 9-1-1 in the U.S. or your local emergency number immediately, and administer naloxone (Narcan) immediately to restore normal breathing levels in the meantime.

A cocaine overdose can be prevented by staying off cocaine completely. However, in the case of a stimulant use disorder, this can be difficult to navigate on your own.

Cocaine use can be treated with behavioral therapies, peer support, and lifestyle modifications.

The idea is to identify and change the underlying patterns leading to cocaine use in safe settings, so that you can overcome unhelpful patterns and develop healthier coping skills to deal with life’s challenges.

Many of those who struggle with cocaine use hesitate to seek care because it might mean putting their lives on hold, risking their livelihoods. But it does not have to be this way.

Outpatient care options like partial hospitalization programs and intensive outpatient programs are designed to offer structure with flexibility so that you do not have to juggle between recovery and daily life.

However, to get more clarity - you can reach out to licensed and experienced experts who will sit with you to understand your concerns and explain what level of care might make sense for you.

Call (323) 307-7997.

Is a cocaine overdose life-threatening?

If immediate medical care is not given, then a cocaine overdose can become life-threatening.

Why is cocaine laced with fentanyl more dangerous?

Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid - 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and heroin, which makes it a more dangerous drug than cocaine.

How to prevent a cocaine overdose?

A cocaine overdose can be prevented by staying off cocaine.

How is cocaine use treated?

Cocaine use is treated with therapy, peer support, and lifestyle modifications that are integrated into your daily life to maintain your recovery.

How long does it take to recover from cocaine use?

Recovery timelines can vary from person to person, but recovery may typically take anywhere between a few weeks and a few months.