The dosage necessary for a fatal cocaine overdose is approximately 1.2 grams. A person can achieve extremely dangerous toxicity with as low as 20 milligrams, according to the Internet Drug Index. Regardless of the amount ingested, it is imperative that a person who has overdosed on drugs receives immediate attention.

What to do if you suspect cocaine overdose

Call 911. If you are the first responder or if you have overdosed, call the local emergency number for your area immediately. Do not risk death or possible permanent damage. If you see a problem, call the National Poison Control Center hotline from anywhere in the United States: (800) 222-1222. The call is confidential and free. Experts for overdose emergencies are available 24 hours a day. Lie the patient down on his side, not on his back. Do not attempt to "walk it off."

Symptoms of cocaine overdose or poisoning

Common signs of an overdose, according to Albemarle Pulmonary Medicine Associates, are increased heart rate, rapid breathing, high blood pressure, anxiety, confusion, sweating and fever. Further complications include seizures, chest pain and heart failure. Death is a very real possibility because of the cocaine-induced rapid heartbeat. Other complications from cocaine use include stroke and blood clots, kidney failure, hepatitis affecting the liver and HIV (from sharing needles). The Internet Drug Index also reports symptoms of nausea and vomiting, delirium, unusual eyeball protrusion, convulsions, unconsciousness and death.

Medical treatment for cocaine poisoning

The Internet Drug Index advises the emergency room responder to use respiration, administer diazepam intravenously and take steps to inhibit the drug from continuing to enter the patient's circulation. Medical attention is required for cocaine overdose. Pulmonary Medicine Associates recommends that the complaint or condition drive the medicine used. For a severe heart rate, use sedation with diazepam (valium) to help reduce the incidence of seizures by lowering the heart rate and blood pressure. A medical first responder may administer acetaminophen for fever. In the event of a heart attack, blood clot antidotes are necessary. Further tests and detoxification is on a per case basis. Once the emergency is under control, a good first responder will advise the patient to seek drug addiction treatment from a drug rehabilitation center to help avoid future overdose scenarios.

Source:

The Internet Drug Index

Albemarle Pulmonary Medicine Associates

American Association of Poison Control Centers

Resource:

Guide to drugs, addiction and treatment