Whether you’ve taken cocaine before, or you’re planning on trying it for the first time – know that what you think is a ‘normal’ dose could be extremely unsafe. 

Recent testing in Greater Manchester has found cocaine circulating with an average purity of 58-64% and with some samples approaching 100%. Meaning a key, line, or bump can cause serious side effects, which in certain cases can be life threatening.  

The only way to ensure you aren’t harmed by drugs is to avoid using them. However, we understand that some students may choose to use drugs during their time at university. So, if you are planning on taking cocaine, take small amounts and take it slow, it’s important to wait to see how your body reacts. 

You can also check what’s in the bag before you take it by using the Students’ Union’s free and anonymous drug testing kits available on campus.  

But I’ve never reacted badly to coke…

Taking cocaine can be unpredictable and is why you can never rely on previous experiences or other people’s reactions to indicate what will happen to your body.  

Even a small dose can put significant strain on your heart and brain. Serious effects can include cardiac complications, strokes and seizures, even among people who consider their use occasional or recreational. 

The risks can also increase when cocaine is combined with alcohol. Taking the two together can produce additional effects on the body and increase the strain on the heart. 

What does a bad reaction look like?

If you or some you know has taken cocaine and experiences chest pain, difficulty breathing, a seizure, collapses, becomes unresponsive or is seriously unwell, call 999 immediately.

Stay with them and tell medical professionals honestly what has been taken, whether they have mixed substances, and when they started to feel unwell. This information is crucial so that the emergency serviced can provide the correct care. 

What can I do to stay safe? 

If you do pick up, make sure to get your drugs tested. You can grab a free testing kit at the Students’ Union Drug and Alcohol Support Service. 

If you’re going out, check in with your friends and take it seriously if someone says they feel unwell. You don’t need to know exactly what someone has taken, or be certain what is happening, before getting help. If you’re worried, seek medical assistance.

If you’re concerned about your own drug use or someone else’s, there is support available.

Accessing support

Visit our ‘What’s in the Bag’ webpages for all information on Harm Reduction. 

We offer an e-learning module Staying Safe, which contains video modules that cover most of the drugs taken in the UK today, the risks when taking them and how to engage with them more safely. 

Eclypse, offer a free and confidential drug and alcohol service for young people in Manchester, if you have significant issues or want medical advice, you can speak to the University GP service.

You can also read the University’s new ‘Policy on The Harmful Use of Substances or Alcohol by Students’, in co-creation with the Students’ Union.