Cocaine Abuse: What Are the Signs?

Sometimes it is easy to determine that someone you know is using a substance. Other times, addicts hide their problem for a long time, and when someone else finally notices, the addiction is advanced. Even if you are pretty sure their behavior indicates that they are somehow intoxicated, it can be difficult to figure out what substance they have been using. If you suspect that a friend or loved one is abusing or addicted to a substance, the information below can help you determine if that substance is cocaine.

What is cocaine?

Derived from the leaves of the coca plant, cocaine is a powerful and highly addictive Central Nervous System stimulant that interacts with the brain’s reward pathways. Crack is a modified form of cocaine that produces similar effects on users. For more information, visit the cocaine or crack pages or read Then & Now: Past & Present Use of Cocaine.

What are the signs that someone has been using cocaine or crack recently?

• Hallucinations: Hallucinations, paranoia, or other changes in mental status are associated with cocaine use.
• Paraphernalia: A number of objects are frequently used to prepare and administer cocaine. For example, straws or rolled paper (like dollar bills) may be used to snort cocaine. If the user is administering via intravenous (IV) injection, they may use belts, bandanas, or other means of constricting their veins. Razor blades, glass pipes, needles, syringes, spoons, lighters, or matches may also be signs that someone is using cocaine.
• Motor Coordination: Because cocaine is a stimulant, a person who has used it recently may fidget, speak quickly, or act as if they are feeling hyper.
• Anxious Behavior: Recent users as well as those craving another fix may exhibit irritable or anxious behaviors.
• Dilated Pupils: A person who has recently used cocaine may have dilated (very large) pupils. If others are having different reactions to the same lighting, the person may have been using cocaine or another substance that affects the pupils similarly.
• Track Marks: Injection of any substance intravenously may lead to the development of track marks. These dark marks result from scarring of the veins after frequent use for injection of the substance.
• Nasal Problems: Because snorting is a common method of administration, many users develop problems with their nasal cavities. They may complain of a stuffy or runny nose, or experience frequent nose bleeds.
• Positive Results on Drug Test: An in-home drug test may be able to confirm your suspicions (Read Drug Testing in Your Home: Pros & Cons), but it might be difficult to get the person to provide a sample.

How can I help that person become drug-free?

eDrugRehab has been helping addicts and their family and friends for years. Visit the contact us page for information on how to speak with an interventionist or addiction specialist. Because not all addicts are ready or willing to seek out treatment on their own, we can help you arrange and prepare for an intervention. We can also offer advice about what type of rehab facility would be best able to meet their needs.