Understanding Drug Overdose and What to Do in an Emergency

An overdose often called an OD happens when someone consumes more of a substance than their body can safely handle. This can occur with prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or illicit substances, and it may be accidental or intentional. Regardless of the cause, every overdose is a medical emergency that requires immediate action.

What Is an Overdose?

An overdose occurs when the body becomes overwhelmed by a toxic amount of a substance. This can happen even with medications that are typically safe at prescribed doses. Sometimes, people experience an accidental overdose because their body reacts unpredictably to a medication, while others may intentionally take more than prescribed in a moment of crisis.

In 2020, nearly 75% of overdose deaths in the United States involved opioids, and about 62% were linked to synthetic opioids like fentanyl. These alarming numbers underscore the importance of awareness, prevention, and prompt response.

Recognizing the Signs of an Overdose

A person experiencing an overdose might not be able to ask for help or may not realize what’s happening. That’s why knowing what to look for and acting quickly can make all the difference.

Common signs of an opioid overdose include:

• Very small, “pinpoint” pupils

• Loss of consciousness or nodding off

• Slow, shallow, or labored breathing

• Choking or gurgling sounds

• Pale, clammy, or bluish skin

• Limp body

Signs of stimulant overdose (such as cocaine, ecstasy, or methamphetamine) include:

• Rapid heart rate and breathing

• High blood pressure

• Hot, flushed skin

• Agitation or confusion

• Risk of seizures, stroke, or heart attack

If you suspect someone is overdosing even if you’re unsure treat it as an emergency.

What to Do if You Suspect an Overdose

1. Call 911 immediately. Tell them you suspect an overdose.

2. Do not leave the person alone. Stay with them until help arrives.

3. Administer naloxone (if an opioid overdose is suspected). Naloxone available as a nasal spray or auto-injector can temporarily reverse the effects of opioids like heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone.

4. Lay the person on their side if they are unconscious but breathing, to prevent choking.

5. Monitor their breathing and responsiveness until medical professionals arrive.

Good Samaritan laws in most U.S. states protect those who call for help during an overdose emergency from legal consequences. Acting quickly could save someone’s life.

About Naloxone

Naloxone hydrochloride works by blocking the effects of opioids on the brain. It’s available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms, including:

• Narcan (4 mg/spray) – OTC

• ReVive (3 mg/spray) – OTC

• Kloxxado (8 mg/spray) – Prescription

• Rextovy (4 mg/spray) – Prescription

• Rezenopy (10 mg/spray) – Prescription

If you administer naloxone, remain with the person for at least four hours, as symptoms can return once the medication wears off.

After an Overdose: Seeking Support

Recovering from an overdose whether it happened to you or someone you care about can bring up many emotions, from fear to guilt to relief. After the emergency has passed, it’s crucial to reach out for follow-up medical and mental health support. Many communities offer access to harm reduction programs, counseling, and addiction treatment services that provide compassionate, judgment-free care.

Key Takeaways

• An overdose happens when a person consumes more than a safe or typical dose of a drug.

• It may be accidental or intentional, but both require emergency attention.

• Recognizing the early signs and calling for help immediately can save lives.

• Naloxone can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose if used quickly.

Understanding what an overdose is and how to respond helps protect not only those at risk but also the people who care about them. Sharing this information could truly make a difference.

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