Understanding the signs of a cocaine overdose and knowing what to do can be life-saving. Get medical help immediately if you think you or someone else has overdosed on cocaine. Don’t wait – call 112 now.
If you suspect a cocaine overdose – call 112 immediately
If you think someone may be experiencing an overdose on cocaine, call 112 straight away. It’s always better to act quickly than to wait and see if symptoms improve on their own.
While waiting for help to arrive:
- Stay with the person and try to keep them calm
- Do your best to keep them awake
- If they’re unconscious, place them on their side in the recovery position
- Don’t give them food, drink, medication or other substances
There’s no safe way to manage an overdose at home, so getting medical help quickly is the most important thing you can do.
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What are the symptoms of a cocaine overdose?
Cocaine overdose symptoms can affect the body and the mind. They may appear suddenly or develop over time.
Everyone responds differently, but there are common signs to look out for:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Racing or irregular heartbeat
- Raised body temperature
- Heavy sweating
- Severe headache
- Trembling or seizures
- Intense anxiety, panic or agitation
- Confusion or seeing, hearing or feeling things that aren’t real
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of consciousness
If you notice any of these symptoms of cocaine overdose in yourself or someone else, it’s important to seek medical help immediately by calling 112.
Remember: even small amounts of cocaine can cause an overdose in some people.
Cocaine and alcohol overdose symptoms
If you mix cocaine with alcohol, there’s a higher risk of an overdose happening. When both are used together, the body produces a toxic substance called cocaethylene. This can make the effects of both drugs last longer. It also increases the risk to the heart.
- Symptoms of a combined cocaine and alcohol overdose include:
- Slowed or stopped breathing
- Severe, sudden onset of chest pain
- A racing sensation in your chest
- Feeling dizzy or faint
- Drowsiness, collapse or loss of consciousness
- Feeling confused or agitated
- Seizures, fits or tremors
Is there such a thing as cocaine overdose treatment?
There isn’t a specific medication that can reverse a cocaine overdose. Unlike opioids, where a drug called naloxone can restore breathing and consciousness, there is no cocaine antidote.
Instead, hospital treatment focuses on keeping the body stable while the drug leaves the system.
This may involve:
- Providing support to organ systems until the drug clears the system, such as ventilators to help with breathing, medications to control blood pressure and monitoring kidney function
- Monitoring heart rate, blood pressure and blood oxygen levels
- Treating seizures if they occur
- Bringing down high body temperature
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Cocaine overdose risk in Ireland
Cocaine use has increased in Ireland in recent years. Each week, roughly two people lose their lives to cocaine overdose. For families and loved ones, that’s a reminder of how serious this drug can be, especially as stronger forms are now easier to get.
Overdose risk isn’t only about how often someone uses. It can happen even with occasional use, and mixing cocaine with alcohol or other substances makes those risks harder to predict.
Getting help after a cocaine overdose
Surviving a cocaine overdose can be frightening, but it can also be a chance to take control of your safety.
Getting help early makes it less likely that another overdose will happen. It also gives you support to build healthier routines and manage triggers before they become dangerous.
Smarmore Castle has supported people and families affected by cocaine addiction for more than 30 years. The care we provide is private, respectful, evidence-based and focused on long-term wellbeing. You can contact us in confidence to talk about your options.
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If you’re worried about your cocaine use and the risk of overdose, or you’ve recently had an overdose, you can talk to us today.
Contact our team to speak in confidence and arrange a drug and alcohol addiction assessment.
Reaching out now can help you understand your risks and plan practical steps to stay safe.
Frequently asked questions
Can a cocaine overdose cause brain damage?
Yes, a cocaine overdose can cause brain damage. When the body is overwhelmed, seizures, overheating or a lack of oxygen can harm the brain tissue. In severe cases, this damage can last a long time or even be permanent.
Getting help quickly can reduce the risk. Overdose is always a serious medical emergency.
How much cocaine can cause overdose?
There is no fixed amount. The strength of it, your tolerance, mixing with other substances such as alcohol, and any health conditions you have all play a role. Even small amounts can cause an overdose in some people.
Is there a cocaine antidote?
No, there’s no cocaine antidote. Doctors and nurses focus on treating the problems the overdose causes, like a fast heartbeat, seizures or high body temperature, while the drug gradually leaves the body.
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If you or a loved one are struggling, our team is here to help – contact us in confidence today.