Safer Cocaine Use

Reduce your risks of experiencing problems during and after using cocaine

Cocaine is a mind-altering drug that causes positive feelings. Using any illegal substance has additional risks because you never know for sure what’s in it or how it was made. Due to the potentially addictive nature of cocaine and its costs, it’s important to know there are some tips to consider before using to help reduce your risk of harm and bad experiences.

Before you Start

  • Be clear about why you want to use
    Is it going to help you in some way or make things worse? It’s important not to use cocaine as a way of avoiding or coping with problems.
  • Know your dealer
    Only buy when you trust the supplier. Cocaine can be cut with other substances, such as fentanyl, to cut down on production costs. It’s best to choose someone you feel safe with and who knows about the drugs they sell.
  • Eat something
    You may not feel like eating when high.
  • Plan a safer environment
    Before using, plan to be at a safer place for the duration of your high. Plan to have a sober ride home and make sure to buddy with a friend who doesn’t plan on using. This can increase safety and support during your high.
  • Clean your hands and any equipment
    Use soap and water or alcohol swaps to wash away any germs that could be carried into the body via your consumption choice.
  • Know the signs of overdose
    An overdose may look different from one person to the next and depending on the drugs involved. An overdose is a medical emergency and the first step is always to call 911.
  • Have a Naloxone Kit
    Sometimes cocaine can also have fentanyl in it. 

When You’re Using Cocaine

  • Start with a small amount and wait before adding more.
  • Stay hydrated and take multiple breaks.
  • Bring your own equipment, such as a straw or post-it note. This will help limit the spread of infection.
  • Finely grind cocaine to avoid damage to your nasal passage.

Things to Consider

  • Be Prepared
    If you are going to use, have clean equipment to use and don’t share equipment with others. Ensure that all equipment is intact.

  • Take care to reduce risk of bleeding/infection
    If snorting, being able to snort lukewarm water between bumps could decrease the risk of nosebleeds, lip balm and hydration can help prevent cracks in lips and mouth.

  • Be aware of your health
    If you have a known heart condition or family history of heart conditions, you should be aware that cocaine could increase the risk of heart attacks. Symptoms of mental illnesses, including depression, can increase when under the influence.

  • Buy less so you use less
    If you’re a first-time user, only take a quarter of the amount suggested. Test how you react to the drug by using a smaller dose. Since everyone’s body tolerates drugs differently, it’s important to test how your body handles its effects.

  • Changing your relationship with cocaine
    If you no longer want to use cocaine, it may be best to remove yourself or the person you know from a setting that may encourage further drug use.

Things to Avoid

  • Combination drug use
    The effects of cocaine can be toxic if mixed with other substances.
  • Being alone while using
    Always have someone with you while you plan to use, in case of an emergency.

Bad Experience?

  • Remove yourself or the person you know from a setting that may encourage further drug use.
  • Have a buddy.
  • If someone overdoses, call 911.
  • Roll the person on their side (to avoid choking if they vomit).
  • Stay with the person until help arrives.

Download the Safer Cocaine Use Brochure

Download the Safer Cocaine Use Brochure