If someone overdoses on drugs or alcohol, it is a medical emergency. Overdoses can slow breathing, cause unconsciousness, or stop the heart. Acting quickly can save a life.
1. Call emergency services immediately
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Dial your local emergency number.
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Give details: substance taken, amount, time, and the person’s age/weight.
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If you are unsure what they took, report all symptoms.
2. Check responsiveness and breathing
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If unconscious and not breathing normally → start CPR immediately.
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If breathing but unconscious → place them in the recovery position (on their side, head tilted back) to keep the airway clear and prevent choking.
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If awake but drowsy, keep them calm, seated or lying safely.
3. Specific measures
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Opioid overdose (heroin, fentanyl, morphine, oxycodone, etc.):
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If available, give naloxone (Narcan/Zimhi/Zurnai/Opvee) immediately.
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Can be given as a nasal spray or injection. Repeat every 2–3 minutes if no response, while continuing rescue breathing/CPR.
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Alcohol overdose:
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Do not give coffee, cold showers, or “walk it off.”
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Do not make them vomit (risk of choking).
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Keep them warm and monitor breathing.
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Unknown drugs or mixed substances:
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Do not give food, drink, or other substances to “counteract” the overdose.
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Save pill bottles, alcohol containers, or drug paraphernalia to show medical staff.
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4. While waiting for help
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Loosen tight clothing around chest/neck.
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Keep them warm with a blanket.
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Monitor closely for changes: slow breathing, seizures, bluish lips/skin, or vomiting.
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Stay with them until professionals arrive.
5. Do NOT
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Do not leave them alone, even if they look better.
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Do not let them “sleep it off.” Many overdoses worsen during unconsciousness.
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Do not give other medications or stimulants to “wake them up.”
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