Cocaine is a stimulant drug that can raise activity in the brain and body. Its effects and risks vary with the substance, amount, health conditions, and whether it is combined with other drugs or alcohol.
Health effects and risks
Cocaine can increase heart rate and blood pressure and may cause agitation, anxiety, or paranoia. Serious complications include abnormal heart rhythms, heart attack, stroke, seizures, and dependence. Chest pain, trouble breathing, seizure, or loss of consciousness needs emergency care.
Testing and next steps
Drug screens vary by specimen and by the substances listed on a test’s panel. Check the instructions and panel before selecting a test; do not assume every product detects this substance. A home screen is preliminary. For more on specimen types, read Drug Testing Methods; for a preliminary positive result, read Unexpected or Preliminary Positive Results. The Substance Information hub lists the current staging test options.
Sources and support
See the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s Commonly Abused Drugs chart for a general overview. For confidential U.S. treatment referrals, contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Call 911 for a medical emergency.