An overdose is when a substance overwhelms the body. This happens when a person takes more of a substance than the body can process, leading to toxic and potentially deadly effects. This can involve drugs (legal or illegal), alcohol, or a combination of substances. Overdoses can happen intentionally or unintentionally, and they are a leading cause of injury-related death in many countries. Understanding what happens during an overdose, how to recognize the signs, and what to do in response can save lives.
What is an Overdose?
An overdose is a medical emergency that happens when a substance overloads the body’s systems, particularly the Central Nervous System. The Central Nervous System controls essential functions like breathing, heart rate, and consciousness.
Different substances affect the body in different ways, but the common thread is that too much of a substance disrupts normal functioning, sometimes fatally.
What Happens in the Body During an Overdose?
The effects depend on the substance involved, but here’s a general overview of what happens.
Central Nervous System Depression
Common with opioids, alcohol, and benzodiazepines, people experience slowed or stopped breathing, known as respiratory depression. This is often followed by a slowed heart rate, an inability to respond to stimuli, and ultimately a loss of consciousness.
The brain and other organs shut down without oxygen, causing brain damage, coma, or death if not treated quickly.
Central Nervous System Overstimulation
Overstimulation is common with stimulants like cocaine, methamphetamine, or high doses of prescription ADHD medications. People may experience a rapid heart rate or irregular heartbeat, which can lead to high blood pressure. Symptoms can range from extreme agitation or paranoia to seizures. Overheating or hyperthermia can occur, which can cause organ failure.
Organ Damage or Failure
Some substances can damage the liver, kidneys, or other organs, especially when used in high doses over time or in combination with other drugs.
Psychological Effects
Some overdoses cause hallucinations, confusion, panic, or psychosis. These can result in dangerous behavior, self-harm, or harm to others.
Why Overdoses Are Becoming More Common
Overdoses have increased in recent years due to the availability of drugs, including the rise of synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which is 50–100 times stronger than heroin. Polysubstance use, mixing drugs like opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol, increases the risk of overdose. Mental health challenges often lead to increased substance use and even a lack of access to treatment, and harm reduction resources contribute.
Preventing Overdose
You can prevent an overdose by using medications only as prescribed. Avoid mixing substances, especially depressants like alcohol and opioids. Avoid using street drugs, but use fentanyl test strips if using illicit substances. Seek support for substance use through therapy, support groups, or treatment centers.
Seeking Help for an Overdose
An overdose can be sudden, terrifying, and fatal, but it is also preventable and treatable. The key is recognizing the signs and acting fast. Whether you’re concerned for yourself, a loved one, or a member of your community, knowing what happens during an overdose can empower you to save a life. Learn about the treatment options we have available to help yourself or a loved one get the services they need to beat addiction and lead a fulfilling life.