Women are one of the fastest-growing groups seeking cocaine treatment

According to RTÉ, there has been a jump in the number of people with a cocaine addiction in Ireland since 2024.

In 2023, cocaine addiction accounted for 17% and that figure jumped to 23% in 2024.

The team at the Rutland Centre confirmed this is one of the "sharpest single-year increases" recorded for any substance at the centre.

The Rutland Centre has also noticed a spike in multi-addiction cases in the last year.

According to their new report, 66% of men were treated for cocaine addiction at the Rutland Centre in 2024.

34% of female patients were treated for cocaine addiction.

Cocaine is officially the most common problem drug among new treatment cases, the Rutland Centre confirmed.

What are the signs of cocaine addiction?

According to The Priory, the early signs of cocaine addiction include:

• Thinking about cocaine often and planning when and how to get it
• Feeling anxious when you’re running low or don’t have cocaine
• Unable to enjoy social situations without taking cocaine
• Taking cocaine when you’re alone
• Using cocaine more often or in larger amounts than planned
• Lying about or hiding your cocaine use
• Losing interest in activities that don’t involve cocaine 
• Sudden mood changes and increased irritability 
• Unexplained absences from home or work
• Missing social or family commitments without explanation
• Denial of the impact that cocaine is having on your life

It's important to note that the symptoms of cocaine abuse and addiction will vary from person to person.

Maebh Mullany, CEO of the Rutland Centre, told RTÉ Radio One:

"Women traditionally face worse barriers entering into treatment than men do. There’s a lot more stigma and shame for women entering treatment.

"There’s a lot more considerations around childcare, around family life, so they tend not to come forward for treatment as frequently or as often as men do."

The Rutland Centre said the increase in cocaine use in Ireland is down to the “availability and accessibility” of the drug.

The HSE Drugs and Alcohol Helpline provides confidential support, information and referrals to services. Call Freephone 1800 459 459 or email helpline@hse.ie