Cocaine use stimulates the brain and central nervous system, and can result in a variety of effects. The effect that cocaine has on an individual depends on a number of factors. These include:

• how much cocaine is taken
• the method of use
• the form and purity of the cocaine
• the height and weight of the user
• the user’s current physical and mental health status
• the user’s previous experience with cocaine (i.e. new user vs frequent user)
• whether other substances (alcohol, tobacco, medications, or other illicit drugs) are used at the same time as cocaine.

Short term effects of cocaine use can include:

• happiness and confidence
• talking more
• feeling energetic and alert
• feeling physically strong and mentally sharp
• increased sex drive
• anxiety
• paranoia
• irritability and agitation
• headaches
• dizziness
• reduced appetite
• dry mouth
• enlarged (dilated) pupils
• higher blood pressure and faster heartbeat and breathing
• higher body temperature
• insomnia
• unpredictable, violent or aggressive behaviour
• indifference to pain.

Long term effects of cocaine use can include:

• dependence
• lung conditions such as bronchitis
• anxiety, paranoia and psychosis
• sexual dysfunction
• kidney failure
• stroke
• seizures
• hypertension and irregular heartbeat
• heart disease and death.

Combined effects when taken with alcohol can include:

• When cocaine is taken with alcohol, the liver produces a new byproduct called cocaethylene. This byproduct increases the heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to increased risk of stroke, arrhythmia and heart attack.

For more information about the effects of cocaine, see FAQ What are the physical and mental health risks of cocaine use?