What Are the Signs of a Cocaine Overdose?

Cocaine overdose can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening conditions. Recognizing the symptoms of a cocaine overdose is crucial for timely intervention. 

Its symptoms can be categorized into physical, psychological, and neurological signs.

What are the Physical Symptoms of Cocaine Overdose?

When your body loses the ability to metabolize cocaine, you begin to show physical signs of an overdose. These symptoms include: 

• Elevated heart rate and blood pressure: The heart beats much faster than normal and may have an irregular rhythm.
• High body temperature: The body can get dangerously overheated, causing lots of sweating and possibly dehydration.
• Nausea and vomiting: Feeling sick and throwing up are common during an overdose.
• Chest pain: Overdose puts a huge strain on the heart, which can lead to chest pain.
• Tremors and muscle twitches: The person may experience shaky, uncontrollable movements.
• Rapid or shallow breathing: Breathing may become very fast and shallow, or it might be difficult to breathe.

What are the Psychological Signs of Cocaine Overdose?

Aside from physical symptoms, a person may also exhibit psychological symptoms. They may become extremely agitated and unable to sit still.

 Overdose can make someone feel intensely paranoid and anxious. In severe cases, they may see or hear things that aren’t there or act confused and disoriented.

Sponsored

Online Therapy Can Help

Over 3 million people use BetterHelp. Their services are:

• Professional and effective
• Affordable and convenient
• Personalized and discreet
• Easy to start

Find a Therapist

Answer a few questions to get started

What are the Neurological Signs of Cocaine Overdose?

Cocaine overdose can cause seizures, which involve shaking and convulsions. If the case is severe, the blood vessels narrow, increasing the risk of a stroke. A stroke can cause permanent damage or death.

Sponsored

Get Professional Help

BetterHelp can connect you to an addiction and mental health counselor.

Find a Therapist

Answer a few questions to get started

What are the Risk Factors for Cocaine Overdose?

Several factors can increase the risk of a cocaine overdose:

• Polydrug use: Mixing cocaine with other substances, especially opioids or alcohol, dramatically increases the risk.
• Potency and purity of cocaine: The stronger the cocaine, the higher the chance of overdose.
• Method of consumption: Injecting or smoking cocaine (crack) leads to a faster, more intense high, making overdose more likely.
• Individual susceptibility: A person’s tolerance, health, and what other substances are in their system can all influence their risk of overdose.

How to Manage a Cocaine Overdose

If you suspect someone is experiencing a cocaine overdose, immediate action is required:

1. Call emergency services: Don’t hesitate to call 911 or your local emergency number right away.
2. Provide support: Stay calm and try to comfort the person. Check their breathing and heart rate if you can.
3. Do not leave the person alone: Stay with them until help arrives because things can worsen quickly.

Cocaine overdose is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of an overdose can be the difference between life and death.

If you or someone you know is struggling with cocaine use, seeking professional help is crucial to prevent the risk of overdose and address the underlying addiction.

Sponsored

Get matched with an affordable mental health counselor

Find a Therapist

Answer a few questions to get started