What is an 8 Ball of Cocaine? Costs, Risks, and More

Medically Verified: 2/1/24

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All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

Cocaine is a highly addictive, illicit stimulant drug. People who use cocaine may quickly develop dependence and addiction to it. Those living with cocaine addiction often require professional treatment and ongoing support to overcome the condition and move forward into a healthier, sober future.

Recognizing terminology related to cocaine use can help you identify cocaine abuse in a loved one or expand your knowledge about substance abuse in general. People who use cocaine may talk about an “8 ball”. But what does this term mean?

This article will define what an 8-ball of cocaine means, the risks of cocaine abuse, and how to seek treatment for cocaine addiction. Reach out to the Carolina Center for Recovery staff now to learn more about our holistic treatment programs or to find support at any stage of addiction recovery.

What is an 8-Ball of Cocaine?

An 8-ball of cocaine is one-eighth of an ounce of cocaine–or about 3.5 grams. The term “8-ball” is often used to describe this amount of cocaine, but it can also be used in reference to methamphetamine, malt liquor, and other intoxicating or illegal substances.

Cocaine is a potent stimulant drug derived from the coca plant in South America. People in this part of the world used cocaine medicinally and recreationally for hundreds of years. Cocaine has a long history and many street names. An 8-ball of cocaine describes a specific amount of cocaine.

How Much Does an 8-Ball Cost?

The price of cocaine can vary. It typically ranges anywhere from $25 to $200 for a gram. An eighth of cocaine is 3.5 grams and it typically costs anywhere from $120-300.

As addictive as cocaine is, users often binge on the drug, using large amounts over short periods of time. As a result, it is easy to spend several hundred dollars on cocaine in just a few days, financially affecting the lives of people who are addicted to it.

Is it Dangerous to Take an 8-Ball of Cocaine?

An eight-ball of cocaine is a dangerously large amount of cocaine to use on a single occasion. However, those with cocaine dependence or addiction may use an eight-ball of cocaine daily.

Cocaine works by stimulating activity in the central nervous system (CNS). Users experience a quick Rush of euphoria and energy within just minutes of snorting or injecting cocaine. Smoking crack cocaine can cause intense effects even faster– within just seconds.

Snorting, injecting, smoking, and freebasing cocaine have short- and long-term effects. These include:

• Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
• Increased body temperature
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Loss of appetite
• Impaired judgment
• Paranoia
• Irritability
• Tremors or muscle twitches
• Hallucinations

Using a large amount of cocaine, such as an 8-ball, can cause intensified adverse effects or a deadly overdose. People using cocaine for the first time or those who do not use it regularly may experience an overdose if they attempt to use an eight-ball of cocaine in one sitting or even over the course of a whole day.

Using too much cocaine can lead to sudden death or other potentially harmful consequences such as difficulty breathing, seizures, chest pain, heart attack, or stroke.

Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Abuse

When someone uses drugs heavily or regularly, their body becomes accustomed to the presence of the drug. In time, people may need to use more of a substance to get the same effects. This is called building tolerance.

People who use an eight-ball of cocaine have likely built up a tolerance to cocaine, which is a sign of addiction. Along with the risk of addiction, heavy cocaine use can lead to other long-term dangers, including:

• Psychosis
• Brain damage
• Vision changes or loss
• Damage to facial structure and sinuses
• New or worsening mental health symptoms
• Cardiovascular issues
• Damage to the liver and lungs
• Increased risk for bloodborne diseases like HIV and hepatitis C

People who use cocaine regularly may be unable to work, attend school, care for family members, or function well in their daily lives.

Do I Need Cocaine Addiction Treatment?

Cocaine addiction is a complex, devastating condition that can disrupt your life in many ways. Cocaine addiction treatment can help you identify the roots of your substance abuse and learn the skills to avoid relapse for life.

The first step toward the help you need is recognizing that you or someone you love has a problem. Understanding the signs of cocaine addiction can help you get treatment quickly and get back on track toward a healthier life.

Some common signs of cocaine addiction include:

• Frequent insomnia
• Over-excitability
• Paranoia
• Exaggerated confidence
• Quick weight loss
• Engaging in dangerous behavior while using cocaine, such as driving under the influence or having risky sex
• Isolating or only spending time with others who use drugs
• Erratic or violent behaviors
• Being unable to keep up with responsibilities at home, work, or school
• Needing to use more cocaine to get the desired effects
• Stealing to pay for cocaine
• Legal or financial trouble related to cocaine use
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if you stop using cocaine

People with cocaine addiction may be unable to stop using it, even if they know it hurts them. Comprehensive cocaine addiction treatment can give people the chance at a healthier, sober future.

Find Help Now

If you or someone you love struggle with cocaine abuse or addiction, contact the Carolina Center for Recovery specialists now. Our admission staff can connect you to the treatment programs and professionals you need to be successful in recovery.