Withdrawal Symptoms, Overdose Signs, & Side Effects of Cocaine Use

Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant drug that can have various physical and psychological effects on the body. Here are some of the withdrawal symptoms, overdose signs, and side effects of cocaine use:

Withdrawal Symptoms:

• Depression.
• Fatigue.
• Anxiety.
• Irritability.
• Agitation.
• Insomnia.
• Increased appetite.
• Intense cravings for cocaine.
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors.

Overdose Signs:

• Rapid heartbeat.
• High blood pressure.
• Dilated pupils.
• Agitation or confusion.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Chest pain or tightness.
• Tremors or seizures.
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• Coma or death.

Side Effects:

• Euphoria.
• Increased energy and alertness.
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure.
• Constricted blood vessels.
• Dilated pupils.
• Decreased appetite.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Insomnia.
• Irritability and anxiety.
• Restlessness and tremors.
• Hallucinations and paranoia.
• Seizures.

Physical & Psychological Side Effects of Using Cocaine

Cocaine is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant drug that can have various physical side effects on the body. Here are some of the most common physical side effects of cocaine.

Most Common Physical Side Effects of Cocaine: 

• Increased Heart Rate & Blood Pressure – Cocaine use can cause a rapid increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Constricted Blood Vessels – Cocaine use can cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to various body parts, including the heart and brain.
• Dilated Pupils – Cocaine use can cause pupils to dilate, making it difficult to see in bright light.
• Increased Body Temperature – Cocaine use can cause a rapid increase in body temperature, which can lead to hyperthermia and other serious health problems.
• Nausea & Vomiting – Cocaine use can cause nausea and vomiting, especially if the drug is ingested orally or mixed with other substances.
• Insomnia – Cocaine use can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia and other sleep-related problems.
• Muscle Twitches – Cocaine use can cause muscle twitches and spasms, especially in the face and extremities.
• Seizures – Cocaine use can trigger seizures, especially in individuals with pre-existing seizure disorders.

Unfortunately, because cocaine impacts dopamine, GABA, and the structural components of the brain, there are psychological effects that occur from cocaine use. Psychiatric symptoms include agitation, paranoia, hallucinations, delusions, violence, and suicidal and homicidal ideation. Additionally, if a person is already diagnosed with a comorbid mental health disorder, cocaine can exacerbate the symptoms of the co-occurring mood disorder.

Research has found paranoia in 68-84% of patients using cocaine. 55% of people were found to have engaged in violent behaviors, and homicide occurred in 31% of patients who used cocaine. Suicide has appeared in 18-22% of cases. Finally, many people diagnosed with a comorbid psychological disorder were found to have cocaine dependence.

Short-Term Side Effects

Cocaine use has significant short and long-term effects. Taking small amounts of cocaine makes the user feel alert, awake, more talkative, and confident. They might experience a reduced appetite and need for sleep.

Long-Term Effects

The long-term effects of chronic cocaine use can be severe. Adverse effects include anxiety, panic attacks, reduced blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract, significant weight loss, malnourishment, permanent damage to the heart and cardiovascular system, increased risk of stroke, permanent damage to the nasal passageways, and a sharp decline in cognitive functioning.

Dangers & Side Effects of Mixing Cocaine With Other Drugs

Mixing cocaine with other drugs, including alcohol and prescription medications, can be extremely dangerous and increase the risk of serious health problems, including overdose and death. Here are some dangers and side effects of mixing cocaine with other drugs.

• Cocaine & Alcohol – Cocaine and alcohol are central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, and mixing the two can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and liver damage. The combination of cocaine and alcohol can also lead to the formation of cocaethylene, a highly toxic substance that can cause serious health problems.
• Cocaine & Opioids – Mixing cocaine with opioids, such as heroin or prescription painkillers, can be extremely dangerous and increase the risk of overdose and death. The combination of these drugs can cause respiratory depression, seizures, and heart failure.
• Cocaine & Benzodiazepines – Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax or Valium, are central nervous system depressants, and mixing them with cocaine can be dangerous. The combination of these drugs can cause respiratory depression, seizures, and cardiac arrest.
• Cocaine & Prescription Medications – Mixing cocaine with prescription medications, such as antidepressants or stimulants, can also be dangerous and increase the risk of side effects, including seizures, hypertension, and heart problems.