An overdose is a serious, life-threatening emergency that requires immediate action. Whether the overdose involves opioids, stimulants, alcohol, or a combination of substances, knowing what to do can save a life. In frightening and chaotic moments, staying calm and responding quickly is crucial.

Recognizing an Overdose

Before taking action, it’s important to identify the signs of an overdose. Common symptoms include:

  • Difficulty breathing or no breathing
  • Unresponsiveness or inability to wake up
  • Blue or gray lips, nails, or skin
  • Slow or irregular pulse
  • Vomiting or choking sounds
  • Seizures
  • Confusion, agitation, or hallucinations
  • Pinpoint pupils (often linked with opioid overdoses)

If you observe any of these signs or if you simply suspect an overdose, it’s better to treat it as an emergency.

Step 1: Call Emergency Services Immediately

The very first step is to call 911 or your local emergency number. Provide as much information as you can, including your location, what substances may have been involved, whether the person is breathing, and whether they are conscious.

You do not need to know exactly what they took to get help. Emergency responders can treat overdoses effectively if they arrive in time.

Step 2: Check Responsiveness and Breathing

Try to gently wake the person by calling their name or tapping their shoulder. If they are not responsive, check for breathing:

  • If breathing is slow, shallow, or irregular: Prepare to administer aid and stay on the line with emergency services.
  • If they are not breathing: Move quickly to the critical next steps.

Step 3: Administer Naloxone (Narcan) If Opioids Are Suspected

If you have naloxone, use it immediately. Naloxone is safe, fast-acting, and can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose within minutes. This drug can be administered as a nasal spray or an injection.

After giving naloxone:

  • Continue to monitor breathing
  • Be ready to administer a second dose if symptoms return
  • Stay with the person until help arrives

Naloxone works only on opioid overdoses, but it will not harm someone if opioids are not involved.

Step 4: Perform Rescue Breathing or CPR if Needed

If the person is not breathing, rescue breathing may restore oxygen until paramedics arrive. Tilt the head back, lift the chin, and give one breath every 5 seconds. CPR may be necessary if there is no pulse. Follow the dispatcher’s instructions or begin chest compressions if you know how.

Even a few minutes without oxygen can cause severe brain damage, so this step is essential.

Step 5: Place the Person in the Recovery Position

If the person is breathing but unconscious, place them on their side with one arm under the head and the top knee bent forward. This position prevents choking if they vomit and helps keep the airway open.

Step 6: Stay With the Person Until Help Arrives

People experiencing an overdose may wake up confused or frightened, lose consciousness again, or experience slow or unsafe breathing. Your presence is vital to monitor their condition and assist if their symptoms worsen. Emergency responders may ask you questions, so staying nearby is important.

What Not to Do During an Overdose

Certain myths and outdated practices can worsen the situation. Do not force the person to eat, drink, or take a cold shower. Do not give them anything, except Narcan if appropriate. Allow the person to sit and lie down in a safe position until help arrives.

Preventing Overdoses in the Future

Knowing how to respond is vital, but prevention saves lives long before an emergency happens. Harm-reduction strategies include having naloxone on hand and testing drugs for contaminants such as fentanyl.

Additional strategies include avoiding substance use, taking only prescribed medications in the recommended amounts, seeking treatment for substance use disorders, and building a support network to reduce risk factors like isolation.

An overdose can be terrifying, but quick and informed action can make all the difference. Calling for help, administering naloxone, and monitoring breathing are the most critical steps. No matter what led to the overdose, responding with calm and compassion may save someone’s life and give them the chance to pursue healing and recovery.