Opioids affect the part of the brain which regulates breathing. When a person uses more of a drug, or a combination of drugs than the body can handle, the brain is not able to control basic life functions, like breathing. If there is no intervention, then the individual can stop breathing and die if help is not available.
Signs/Symptoms of an Overdose
- Blue/purple lips, fingernails, or toenails
- Very slow or no breathing
- Faint pulse or no pulse
- Pale and clammy skin
- Unresponsive to calling their name or to pain
- Snoring or gurgling noises while asleep or nodding out
Risk Factors
- Using a greater amount or a stronger potency of a drug
- Mixing with alcohol or other drugs
- Inconsistent drug quality and potency (illegal drugs are unregulated and therefore unpredictable)
- Using drugs after a period of time of not using them. Tolerance is less.
- Using alone – there is no one to help
What to do in the event of an overdose
Step 1: Shout and Shake
Step 2: Call 911
Step 3: Give Naloxone
Step 4: Perform rescue breathing and/or chest compressions
Step 5: Is it working? If no improvement after 2-3 minutes, repeat steps 3&4.
Step 6: Stay with them.
Take-home Naloxone kits and training are available free of charge and without a prescription for people at risk of overdose and their family and friends. Naloxone kits are available at the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, Community Health Centres, and many pharmacies across the region. Health Cards are not required. Call your pharmacy ahead of time to make sure a Naloxone kit is available.
You can find where to access a kit in your community by accessing:
Where to get a free naloxone kit.