The Office for National Statistics has published a report showing that 196 people died after taking cocaine in 2007 -- a massive increase from the 23 deaths reported in 1993 when these types of deaths were first recorded.

Although the cost of the drug has plummeted in recent years, some believe that use has become more widespread due to its perception as a 'dinner party drug'.

"Cocaine is seen as a middle-class drug associated with success and money," said Clare McNeil, spokesperson for Addaction, a charity offering treatment for drug addiction.

"It doesn't have the stigma attached to other Class A drugs like heroin but it can be just as destructive."

Another possible reason for the increase in deaths is due to cocaine use being combined with alcohol -- the two combine in the body to form cocaethylene, a highly toxic substance that raises the risk of cardiac arrest.

"People are often ignorant of the risks of combining alcohol with cocaine for example, which can increase the risk of liver and heart disease, strokes and epilepsy," McNeil said.

The figures show that deaths from all drugs have been highest in men aged 30-39 -- with the death rate among men in the 40-49 age group increasing by 45 per cent in the past five years.

"The increase in deaths among men in their thirties and forties is worrying," said McNeil.

"It suggests that more people are continuing to experiment and take risks with drugs well into adulthood."

The Department of Health responded to the figures by stating that tackling drug abuse was a priority for them.

"Increased funding has led to 130 per cent more people in treatment and crime associated with drugs has fallen," said a spokesperson.