We have recently received reports from Coventry and Warwickshire drug alert services about a rise in batches of both powder and crack cocaine that have been mixed with other, potentially harmful substances. This has caused unusual symptoms in people who have recently taken cocaine – including seizures. This has directly affected young adults in the Coventry and Warwickshire area. The only way to avoid all the risks is not to take cocaine, or any drugs which are not prescribed for you. However, if you do still choose to take them, keep in mind the following points to ensure you are staying as safe as possible:

1. Caution is key: as you can see from these recent reports, it is becoming more and more common for drugs to be cut with dangerous synthetic substances, so be careful where you get your drugs and cautious about the drugs you are taking.
2. Go low and slow: if taking drugs, begin with a small amount and wait to feel the effects before you take any more.
3. Stay hydrated: cocaine can cause dehydration, so keep drinking water and eating regularly.
4. Don’t drink and drug: mixing cocaine with anything isn’t good as it increases the risk of potentially harmful reactions—but mixing with alcohol is particularly dangerous, as it creates a new substance (called cocaethylene) that stays in your body longer and can lead to an accidental overdose.
5. Sharing is not caring: don’t share straws, notes or other items you’re using to take coke – this spreads blood-borne viruses like hepatitis.
6. Look out for each other: if you’re taking cocaine, make sure you are with a trusted person who can call for help in case of a bad reaction or overdose. It’s important to know that Naloxone (the drug for reversing opioid overdoses) doesn’t work on cocaine, so always call 999 if you suspect an overdose. However, cocaine may be contaminated with dangerous opiates like nitazenes, so carrying naloxone is still recommended for any drug user. You can get free Naloxone kits from Change, Grow Live (CGL) in Coventry.

Always remember: the use of cocaine and lots of other recreational drugs is illegal in the UK. Find out more about the different categories of drugs and what the law says about them here. If you feel you need advice about or help with a problem related to drug use, it’s important you seek support. Regardless of your situation (or any worries you may have about any consequences), the number one thing anyone will ever be concerned about is that you are getting the help you need and deserve. Positive change will never happen if you stay silent. You can find out more general information on drugs, alcohol and how to get support on Your SU’s staying safe around drugs and alcohol webpage.