The dangers of mixing alcohol and cocaine are to be highlighted in a new poster campaign funded by the National Drugs Awareness Campaign.
The cocaine awareness campaign will target the 18-35 year old age group with posters in the toilets of 70 of the country’s largest entertainment venues, pubs and clubs.
About 5 per cent of young people between 15 and 34 say they have used cocaine, and 1 per cent have used heroin, according to the National Advisory Committee on Drugs.
"This indicates that cocaine is widely available in all areas around the country," the committee says.
"Of additional concern is that cocaine overdoses are unpredictable, and combining cocaine with other drugs, particularly alcohol, is highly risky. There are also risks associated with injection and the sharing of snorting and smoking equipment."
The committee warns that the short-term after effects of cocaine use can include fatigue and depression. Chronic use or heavy binges can lead to paranoia, hallucinations, anxiety attacks and agitation.
The latest phase of the campaign highlights the dangers of psychological dependence, behavioural effects and the serious health impact of combining drugs.
Studies in Ireland show that many drug users take a variety of different drugs in what is known as polydrug use.
The most common drug taken in combination with illegal drugs is alcohol. The National Advisory Committee says the risk of a fatal overdose or toxic effect on the major organs, including the heart and liver, are very high when drugs and alcohol are mixed.
The advisory body is concerned about signs of increased cocaine use among opiate users in disadvantaged areas around Dublin.