Can You Eat Cocaine? | What Does Cocaine Taste Like?

Can You Eat Cocaine? | What Does Cocaine Taste Like?

When it comes to consuming cocaine, it’s important to note that it is not typically eaten in the same way as regular food. Instead, it is commonly ingested by rubbing it along the gums or swallowing it whole. This method allows the drug to enter the bloodstream and produce its desired effects.

One reason why people rub cocaine along their gum line is to test its quality. Cocaine has a numbing effect, and the more numb the gums become, the purer the cocaine is believed to be.

While it is possible to eat crack cocaine, it is not commonly done. This is because crack cocaine needs to go through the digestive system before its effects can be felt, which can take up to an hour. As a result, crack cocaine is typically not used in this manner.

It’s important to note that orally consuming cocaine can lead to many of the same effects and dangers associated with other methods of use, such as snorting, injecting, plugging, or smoking the drug.

Eating cocaine can cause an increase in energy and trigger the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, leading to the euphoric “high” that many individuals seek. However, it also carries significant risks, including an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and seizure.

Effects of Cocaine When Taken Orally

When cocaine is taken orally, the effects can be categorized into two different categories: physical and behavioral.

Physical Effects

The physical side effects of eating cocaine powder can lead to a number of health problems. These include:

  • Heart attack: Eating cocaine can significantly increase the risk of experiencing a heart attack, which can be life-threatening.
  • High blood pressure: Cocaine can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure, putting strain on the cardiovascular system.
  • Respiratory illnesses: The ingestion of cocaine can lead to respiratory issues, such as difficulty breathing or respiratory infections.
  • Dizziness: Eating cocaine may cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
  • Chest pain: Some individuals may experience chest pain or discomfort after consuming cocaine orally.
  • Increased alertness: Cocaine can lead to heightened alertness and wakefulness.
  • Sweating: Sweating excessively is a common physical side effect of cocaine ingestion.

Behavioral Effects

Consuming cocaine orally can also affect an individual’s behavior and mental health. Some potential behavioral effects include:

  • Anxiety: Cocaine use can induce feelings of anxiety and restlessness.
  • Poor decision-making: The drug can impair judgment and lead to impulsive or risky behaviors.
  • Lack of self-awareness: Cocaine can diminish self-awareness and lead to a distorted perception of reality.
  • Irritability: Some individuals may become easily irritated or agitated after ingesting cocaine orally.
  • Panic: Cocaine use can trigger panic attacks or feelings of intense fear and distress.
  • Paranoia: The drug can induce paranoid thoughts or feelings of extreme suspicion.

It’s worth noting that these effects can be even more pronounced when cocaine is used in combination with other substances, such as opioids or amphetamines.

Dangers of Eating Cocaine

Eating cocaine can significantly increase the risk of various dangers and long-term effects that can seriously impact an individual’s health. These issues can be even more dangerous if the cocaine being consumed is cut with other drugs, such as fentanyl.

Overdose

Regardless of the method of ingestion, using cocaine in any form increases the risk of a cocaine overdose. An overdose occurs when an individual takes an amount of the drug that their body cannot handle, leading to potentially life-threatening consequences.

In many cases, unintentional overdose deaths associated with cocaine involve the presence of fentanyl, a powerful opioid, as a cutting agent. In fact, in 2020, fentanyl was involved in 80% of cocaine-related overdose deaths in Ohio.

Recognizing an overdose and seeking immediate medical assistance is crucial. If you or someone you know experiences any of the following symptoms, it is important to call 911 immediately:

  • Extreme anxiety or agitation: A person may appear highly anxious or agitated.
  • High blood pressure: Blood pressure may become significantly elevated.
  • Increased body temperature: The individual may experience a rapid rise in body temperature.
  • Hallucinations: Visual or auditory hallucinations can occur during a cocaine overdose.

In severe cases, a cocaine overdose can lead to:

  • Heart attack: An overdose can trigger a heart attack, which can result in sudden death.
  • Irregular heart rhythm: Cocaine use can disrupt the normal electrical rhythm of the heart.
  • Stroke: A stroke can occur as a result of cocaine overdose, leading to potentially permanent damage.
  • Seizure: Seizures are a potential consequence of consuming cocaine, particularly during an overdose.
  • Trouble breathing: Cocaine use can cause respiratory distress and difficulty breathing.

Cardiovascular Issues

Eating cocaine can also lead to a range of cardiovascular issues. These include:

  • Heart disease: Regular cocaine use, including oral ingestion, can contribute to the development of heart disease.
  • High blood pressure: Cocaine can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure, putting strain on the heart and blood vessels.
  • Increased heart rate: The drug can significantly elevate heart rate, potentially leading to heart-related complications.
  • Constricted blood vessels: Cocaine use can cause blood vessels to narrow, restricting blood flow.
  • Ischemia: Cocaine can reduce blood flow to certain areas of the body, leading to tissue damage.
  • Acute coronary syndrome: This condition refers to a range of symptoms caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
  • Heart arrhythmias: Cocaine use can disrupt the normal electrical rhythm of the heart, leading to irregular heartbeats.

It’s important to note that the severity of these heart issues can increase with chronic cocaine use. Prolonged use of the drug can cause the walls of the heart to thicken and stiffen, potentially increasing the risk of a heart attack.

Seizures

Cocaine use, including oral consumption, can also trigger seizures. It’s worth noting that seizures can occur even in individuals who do not engage in chronic drug use. The onset of a seizure can happen within seconds, minutes, or hours after taking cocaine.

Seizures related to cocaine use can be associated with a heart attack, which can lead to death. However, seizures can also occur independently of other complications.

Dependence

Cocaine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This classification indicates that cocaine has a high potential for abuse and can lead to severe psychological and physical dependence.

When an individual becomes dependent on cocaine, it becomes extremely challenging to stop using the drug. Over time, the body becomes accustomed to the presence of cocaine, and when an individual tries to quit, their body has to readjust. This can result in intense withdrawal symptoms, such as intense drug cravings, agitation, depression, and fatigue.

Signs of Cocaine Abuse

If you suspect that someone you care about is abusing cocaine or struggling with substance use disorder, there are several signs you can look out for:

  • Weight loss: Significant and unexplained weight loss may be a sign of cocaine abuse.
  • Mood swings: Frequent and drastic changes in mood can indicate cocaine use.
  • Social isolation: Individuals who are abusing cocaine may withdraw from social activities and isolate themselves from friends and family.
  • Taking part in risky behaviors: Cocaine use can lead to engaging in risky or dangerous behaviors, such as driving under the influence or unsafe sexual practices.
  • Plastic bags around their space: The presence of plastic bags or small plastic wraps in their personal space may indicate cocaine use.
  • Financial issues: Individuals struggling with cocaine addiction may experience financial difficulties due to spending excessive amounts of money on the drug.
  • Hygiene issues: Neglecting personal hygiene and appearance can be a sign of substance abuse.

If you or someone you know is living with cocaine addiction, it is important to seek help. Ohio Recovery Center offers a range of cocaine addiction treatment options, including detox, inpatient treatment, and aftercare. Contact our helpline today to learn more about our treatment center and how we can assist you in your recovery journey.