The fatal dose of cocaine (cocaine hydrochloride topical solution) has been approximated at 1.2 g., although severe toxic effects have been reported from doses as low as 20 mg.

Symptoms - The symptoms of cocaine (cocaine hydrochloride topical solution) 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 body 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 (cocaine hydrochloride topical solution) is rapid in developing.

Treatment - The specific treatment of acute cocaine (cocaine hydrochloride topical solution) 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 prognosis is favorable since cocaine (cocaine hydrochloride topical solution) is eliminated fairly rapidly.

Cocaine Hydrochloride (cocaine (cocaine hydrochloride topical solution) hydrochloride topical solution) is contraindicated in patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to the drug or to the components of the topical solution.

Last reviewed on RxList: 3/19/2009
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.