The fatal dose of cocaine has been approximated 1.2 g, although severe toxic effects have been reported from doses as low as 20 mg. SYMPTOMS: The symptoms of cocaine poisoning are referable to the CNS, namely the patient becomes excited, restless, garrulous, anxious and confused. Enhanced reflexes, headache, rapid pulse, irregular respiration, chills, rise in b.d. temperature, mydriasis, exophthalmos, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain are noticed in severe overdoses, delirium, Cheyne-Stokes respiration, convulsions, unconsciousness and death from respiratory arrest result. Acute poisoning by cocaine is rapid in developing. TREATMENT: The specific treatment of acute cocaine poisoning is the intravenous administration of a short-acting barbiturate or diazepam. Artificial respiration may be necessary. It is important to limit absorption of the drug. If entrance of the drug into circulation can be checked, and respiratory exchange maintained, the progress is favorable since cocaine is eliminated fairly rapidly.

Cocaine Hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to the drug or to the components of the solution.

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