Call 911 immediately if you suspect an overdose. Don’t hesitate; immediate medical attention is crucial.
Recognizing the Signs
- Slow, shallow breathing: This is a serious sign. Count breaths per minute; fewer than 8 is dangerous. Loss of consciousness: Unresponsiveness indicates a severe emergency. Blue or gray skin: A change in skin color suggests oxygen deprivation. Pinpoint pupils: Extremely small pupils are a common indicator of opioid overdose. Low blood pressure: This can cause dizziness and fainting. Severe drowsiness or sedation: Difficulty waking or staying awake. Vomiting or nausea: May accompany an overdose. Muscle weakness or limpness: Can indicate severe central nervous system depression.
What to Do
Call emergency services (911 or your local equivalent) immediately. Clearly describe the situation and the person’s symptoms. Keep the person awake. Try to keep them conscious and responsive. Gentle verbal stimulation may help. Administer naloxone (Narcan) if available and trained to do so. This medication can reverse the effects of opioid overdose. Place the person in the recovery position. This helps prevent choking if they vomit. Monitor their breathing and vital signs. Observe their breathing rate, pulse, and level of consciousness until emergency medical services arrive. Provide any relevant information to paramedics. Tell them what medications the person took and when.
After Emergency Care
Seek follow-up medical care to discuss medication management and prevent future incidents. A doctor can help create a safer medication plan.
