A binge is where the drug is repetitively taken over several hours or days. The user may attempt to end the binge by taking a depressant drug such as alcohol, benzodiazepines or heroin. The binge is followed by the 'crash' - a period characterised by intense depression, lethargy and hunger. The unpleasant effects of cocaine increase with more frequent, long-term use. This often results in cocaine users discontinuing their use for a period of time.
Cocaine is often mixed with substances that are poisonous when injected.
This may cause collapsed veins, abscesses and damage to the heart, liver and brain. Also, because users don't know the exact purity and strength of the drug, the chances of overdose and death are also increased. If injected into the skin, either by intent or accident, cocaine causes severe vasoconstriction, which may prevent blood flowing to the tissue, potentially resulting in severe tissue damage. This can occur after just one injection of cocaine. There is an increased risk of blood-borne viruses and infections such as HIV , hepatitis B and hepatitis C .