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Cocaine
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Cocaine

Also known as: Coke, C, snow, charlie, blow, white, dust crack.

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What is cocaine?
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What is cocaine?

A white crystalline powder made from the processed and treated leaves of the coca plant. Cocaine can also come in synthetic form and is snorted, swallowed, injected, smoked or rubbed into the gums of the mouth.

Immediate effects

  • Intense pleasure
  • Elevated sexual arousal
  • Self-confidence
  • Increased alertness
  • Chest pain
  • Heightened body temperature
  • Nausea
  • Reduced concentration
  • Indifference to pain

Long-term effects

  • Dependence
  • Insomnia and exhaustion
  • Hypertension and irregular heartbeat
  • Damage to the lining of the nose and nasal passages (when snorted)
  • Collapsed veins (when injected)
  • Anxiety, paranoia and psychosis
  • Eating disorders and weightless

How to reduce harm

  • Crush the crystals into a fine powder to avoid cuts in the nostril
  • Rinse your nostrils with water before and after
  • Use a disposable straw instead of currency to reduce risk of HIV or Hep C
  • Switch nostrils to avoid collapse
  • Using in smaller amounts can reduce the risk of heart attack and heart problems
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How it works with other drugs
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How it works with other drugs

When you mix cocaine with other stimulant drugs (such as caffeine, nicotine and amphetamines), you’re placing enormous pressure on the heart which can lead to heart attack or stroke.

Physical risks

Seizures, heart attack, brain haemorrhage, kidney failure and stroke.

Legal risks

Cocaine is an illegal substance. If you are found in possession of cocaine, you could be arrested or charged with a criminal offence.

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Treatment and support services
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Treatment and support services 

Counselling Online offers free, confidential 24/7 access to trained counsellors who can help you work through your goals and identify services to support you in your area. Have a chat to one of our counsellors if you’re not sure where you’d like to get started. 

For further assistance, check out these services:

If you’re looking for more information about other illicit or prescription drugs, visit the Australian Drug Foundation’s Drug Facts, a comprehensive and straight-forward guide.

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What can I do next?
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What can I do next?

  • Take a self-assessment to help you decide if you should consider seeking help.
  • Get support from others who have been where you are now, in our community forums.
  • Try out some of our tips for making a change — they're simple and suitable no matter your stage in your journey.