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.
Signs/Symptoms of an Overdose
- Blue 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
