Cocaine-related death

Cocaine use and abuse, an ancient custom, is once again commonplace. While severe toxicity appears to be rare, overt poisoning including death can occur. This report documents nine cases of death associated with cocaine use; in three of these cocaine appears to be causative. Toxicologic analysis of body fluids and tissues was affirmative and levels are reported. Cocaine should be considered in serious drug overdose-reactions, especially after illicit injection.