What do the cocaine statistics tell us?
Cocaine Facts, Figures, and Statistics
Cocaine is a powerful and addictive stimulant that has severe impacts on individuals and wider society. It is often used as a party drug or something to enhance social experiences, leading to its widespread presence in nightlife and social gatherings.
This page provides a comprehensive overview of cocaine use, and its prevalence, detailing the cocaine stats, usage patterns, health effects, addiction, treatment success rates, economic and social impacts, and rehabilitation measures.
What is cocaine?
Cocaine is a potent stimulant drug derived from the leaves of the coca plant native to South America.
It is commonly found in two forms: powder cocaine and crack cocaine. Powder cocaine is typically snorted or dissolved and injected, while crack cocaine is smoked. Both forms are highly addictive and pose significant health risks.
Did you know?
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT COCAINE
A history of cocaine use
Cocaine has a long history of use, initially as a medical anaesthetic and stimulant in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its recreational use surged in the 1970s and 1980s, leading to widespread addiction and social issues. Despite its dangers, cocaine remains a popular illicit drug today.
What makes cocaine addictive?
Cocaine is highly addictive due to its powerful effect on the brain’s reward system, where it increases levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, creating intense feelings of euphoria and pleasure. This rapid buildup of dopamine reinforces drug-taking behaviour, making users crave repeated use to replicate the high. Over time, the brain’s reward system becomes altered, leading to tolerance, dependence, and compulsive drug-seeking behaviour.
COCAINE USE IN NUMBERS
Cocaine statistics UK
Cocaine use in the UK
The UK is among the top three countries globally for cocaine use, with a usage rate of 2.67%
Dependance
Cocaine is highly addictive, with about 20% of users developing a dependance.
Gender difference
Men are more likely to use cocaine than women, with 3.8% of men and 1.5% of women aged 16-59 reporting past-year use.
Age group usage
Users in the age group of adults aged 16-24 have the highest rates of use, with about 6.2% reporting past-year use.
Drug classification
Cocaine has been classified as a Class A drug in the UK since the introduction of the Misuse of Drugs Act in 1971, meaning it is considered to have a high potential for abuse.
Health Impact
In 2022, there were over 850 deaths related to cocaine use in the UK, reflecting a rise in cocaine-related fatalities.
Potential drivers to addiction
Factors contributing to addiction include genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and the drug's impact on the brain's reward system.
Change in tolerance
Many addicts report that as they develop tolerance, they no longer experience the initial positive effects of cocaine.
The impact of long term use
Long term users will use cocaine more frequently and in larger amounts in an attempt to recapture initial feelings.
The socioeconomic factors influencing cocaine use suggest that individuals in urban areas and higher income brackets are more susceptible to cocaine addiction because of its accessibility, highlighting a need for targeted prevention and education efforts in these communities.
HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS
How does cocaine affect health?
Short term effects
Euphoria and increased energy
May cause paranoia and hallucinations
Decreased appetite
Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Long term effects
Cardiovascular problems (heart attacks, stroke)
Respiratory issues (especially with smoking)
Neurological and cognitive deficits
Mental health disorders (depression, anxiety, psychosis)
Can you overdose on cocaine?
Yes, there is always a risk of cocaine overdose. This can be life-threatening and occurs when toxic levels of cocaine are taken, leading to severe health complications such as heart attacks, strokes, seizures, and respiratory failure. The increasing purity of cocaine and its combination with other substances, such as alcohol or opioids, further elevates the risk of overdose and death.
Cocaine overdose symptoms include:
- Extreme sweating
- Elevated heart rate
- Seizures
- Vommiting
- Hyperthermia
These symptoms can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
GETTING HELP
Can cocaine addiction be treated?
Yes, a lifetime of sobriety is possible for anyone struggling with cocaine addiction.
Effective treatment for cocaine addiction typically involves a combination of medically supervised detoxification followed by behavioural therapies. Success rates vary, but at Providence Projects our addiction treatment stats are excellent.
Client satisfaction with our service
Complete their detox programme
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Resources and support for cocaine addiction
NHS Drug Addiction Helpline
The NHS Drug Addiction Helpline provides support and information about local drug treatment services in the UK, helping individuals find the assistance they need to overcome addiction. It offers confidential advice and resources to guide people towards recovery and healthier lifestyles.
Frank
Frank is a confidential helpline in the UK that provides advice and information about drugs, including cocaine, available 24/7 through phone, text, and their website. It offers support, guidance, and resources for individuals struggling with drug use and their families.
Cocaine Anonymous UK
Cocaine Anonymous UK is a fellowship of individuals who share their experiences, strength, and hope to help each other recover from cocaine addiction. It offers meetings, resources, and a support network to assist members in achieving and maintaining sobriety.
Adfam
Adfam is a UK-based charity that focuses on improving the lives of families affected by drug, alcohol, and gambling issues. It provides support, information, and advocacy to help families cope with the challenges of addiction and works to influence national policy to better address their needs.
Families Anonymous
Families Anonymous is a UK-based support group for relatives and friends concerned about the use of drugs or related behavioural problems of a loved one. The organisation provides a supportive environment through regular meetings and resources, helping members share their experiences and find ways to cope with the challenges of addiction in the family.
Take the first step towards a life free from cocaine addicition
You don’t have to face cocaine addiction alone. We’re here to provide the support, care, and tools you need to reclaim your life. Our expert team is ready to help you every step of the way, from initial assessment to aftercare.
