Important: These actions do not replace calling for emergency help (999).

Always call for an ambulance if you are concerned.

Below is some brief tips on how to effectively respond to a situation where somebody has suffered a cocaine overdose.

Cocaine can cause death in several ways, namely cardiac arrest, stroke or seizure. The main reason for these events is because cocaine increases the heart rate and at the same time constricting the blood vessels

None of the below tips are instead of calling for an ambulance if you or anyone else is concerned in any way about the person, they are simple things that can be done while awaiting one.

1. Reduce Environmental Stimulus

• Move the person to a quiet, calm space.
• Ask unhelpful bystanders to leave, or take the person somewhere less stimulating.

2. Build Rapport and Trust

• Make eye contact and calmly tell them you can help.
• Ask, “Do you believe me?” to establish trust.
• Be reassuring throughout—your calmness can help them feel safer.

3. Model Calm Behaviour

• Sit down and invite them to do the same: “Can you sit down with me?”
• Speak slowly and quietly, but clearly enough to be heard.
• Encourage them to mimic your calm actions and tone.

4. Discourage Further Stimulant Use

• Explain that taking more stimulants will worsen symptoms and waste their drugs.
• If they insist on using, encourage much smaller doses and longer intervals between doses.

5. Breathing Exercises

• Guide them through slow breathing:
– Inhale through the nose for 3 seconds.
– Hold breath for 2 seconds.
– Exhale through the mouth for 5 seconds.
• Suggest placing a hand on their belly button to feel it rise and fall.
• Closing their eyes can help reduce stimulation.
• If hyperventilating and a paper bag is available, encourage breathing into it.

6. Cooling the Person

• Open a window or use a fan to cool the room.
• Get them to remove unnecessary clothing (e.g., coat, jumper).
• Prepare a bowl of lukewarm (not cold or icy) water—check temperature with your elbow.
• Offer a wet sponge or cloth for the back of the neck, forehead, and inner wrists. Re-wet the cloth each time.
– Never use cold water, as this can worsen vasoconstriction and increase risk.
• If permitted, you can gently sponge these areas for them while they focus on breathing.

7. Hydration

• If they insist on drinking, offer only water and only in tiny sips to relieve dry mouth.
• Ideally, avoid giving anything by mouth until expert help arrives.
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If symptoms worsen (seizure, stroke, unconsciousness), follow the specific emergency steps outlined previously.

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Reference: Office for National Statistics