Facts about an Opioid Overdose

Opioid overdose is characterized by the decrease in breathing rate which can lead to death. Death usually occurs 1 to 3 hours after injection, rather than suddenly. Overdose is frequently witnessed by someone who does not recognize the danger or does not want to act on it. In many cases of overdose, opioids are mixed with alcohol or benzodiazepines.

Overdose is most common among those who have been using for 5 to 10 years, rather than in the new user. Other risks include:

  • Resumption of use after a period of abstinence from opioid use, such as recent release from detoxification, drug treatment or correctional facility,
  • Use of opioids without others present raises the risk of death if an overdose occurs,
  • Mixing opioids with other drugs, particularly alcohol or the sedatives,
  • Injection, and
  • Serious medical problems such as advanced HIV infection and impaired liver function.

How do I recognize signs of an opioid overdose?

  • The person can't be woken up
  • Breathing is very slow or not existent
  • Nails or lips may turn pale, gray or blue

What should I do if I see an overdose?

  • Call 911 immediately!
  • Say "I think someone may have overdosed."
  • If the person isn't breathing, do rescue (mouth-to-mouth) breathing by pinching the nose and blowing into the mouth
  • Administer naloxone (Narcan) if you have it
  • Lay the person on their side once they have resumed breathing
  • Stay with the overdosed person until the ambulance arrives
Call 911. Give them nasal naloxone. Check for breathing. Stay with the person.

Directions on how to use Naloxone for Opioid Overdose

Know the Law

911 Good Samaritan Law protects individuals who call for help during an overdose.

Learn more about 911 Good Samaritan

Resources

Instructions, Posters and other materials available to print and/or order

Palm Cards: