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Using meth or cocaine

Also called: Stimulant use

Using meth or cocaine can cause heart attacks, strokes, overheating, and psychosis. Help is available at 1-800-662-4357.

Common causesMethamphetamine, cocaine
Usually serious?Yes
Get checked ifChest pain, paranoia, or wanting help
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide or in crisis? Call or text 988.Being hurt or threatened at home? National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233.Help with alcohol or drug use: SAMHSA Helpline, 1-800-662-4357.

Overview

Fentanyl is often mixed in.

Don't use alone.

When to get medical care

Call 911Chest pain, seizures, high fever, or confusion.
Get care todayParanoia or seeing things.
See a doctor soonWanting help.

Causes

Caused by stimulant use.

OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause using meth or cocaine. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • Stimulant use (meth or cocaine)See a doctor if it doesn't get better

    Regular use of meth, cocaine, or other stimulants can cause severe tooth decay and dry mouth, picking sores from feeling bugs under the skin, weight loss, days…

What you can do at home

  • Don't use alone.
  • Carry naloxone and fentanyl test strips.

Medicines

Counseling.

At the doctor

The provider will check.

Questions you may be asked

  • Use

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

  • ECG

Prevention

Get help.

  • Call 1-800-662-4357

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.