Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about addiction treatment.
Learn How to Save a Life
Overview
A drug overdose occurs when a person takes a toxic amount of a substance or combination of substances. Overdoses can be accidental or intentional and may involve prescription medications, illicit drugs, alcohol, or over-the-counter drugs.
Signs of Overdose
Opioid Overdose
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- Slowed or stopped breathing
- Blue/gray skin
- Unresponsiveness
- Pinpoint pupils
- Gurgling sounds
Stimulant Overdose
- Chest pain
- Seizures
- Extremely high temperature
- Agitation
- Loss of consciousness
Alcohol Overdose
- Confusion
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Slow breathing
- Hypothermia
- Unconsciousness
Emergency Response
- Call 911 immediately
- Administer naloxone for suspected opioid overdose
- Provide rescue breaths if needed
- Place person on their side
- Stay with them
- Good Samaritan laws in many states provide legal protection for reporting overdoses
Prevention Strategies
- Carry naloxone
- Never use alone
- Use fentanyl test strips
- Avoid mixing substances
- Start low and go slow after any period of abstinence (tolerance drops rapidly)
- Store medications safely
- Get connected with treatment services
Related Resources
FindAddictionTreatments.com provides informational content and referral services. We are not a treatment facility. Individual treatment outcomes vary. No specific results are guaranteed.
National Resources: SAMHSA National Helpline | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 | SAMHSA Treatment Locator: findtreatment.gov