An opioid overdose requires immediate medical attention. Call 911 immediately if you or someone you know exhibits any of the symptoms.

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Signs of an Overdose

Recognize the Signs

of an overdose

UNDERSTAND THE SIGNS OF OPIOID MISUSE

It is common for people to misuse prescription drugs, like opioids, especially without a plan to stop or proper support. Misusing these substances can quickly lead to opioid use disorder. When people can’t get more opioids from their doctor, they might keep using old prescriptions or try to get more from other sources.

Taking opioids without a prescription from a doctor or trusted pharmacist can be very dangerous. These opioids are often mixed with harmful random substances, or deadly amounts of powerful opioids like fentanyl. This increases the risk of health problems, overdose, and death. The chances of opioid misuse and overdose increases when using drugs illegally.

SIGNS OF AN OVERDOSE
0 %

of
americans

misuse prescription substances.
0 %
of prescription substance misusers have substance use disorders.

SIGNS OF AN OPIOID USE DISORDER

Recognizing these signs can help you support yourself or a loved one:
  • Taking opioids differently than prescribed, like taking more or using them for the effects
  • Using opioids “just in case”
  • Mood swings and changes
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Borrowing medication from others
  • “Losing” medications to get more prescriptions
  • Getting the same prescription from different doctors
  • Making poor decisions
  • Putting oneself or others in danger
When Someone You Care About is Misusing

If a loved one is misusing opioids, you might notice changes in yourself too:

  • Worrying about their substance use
  • Making excuses for their behavior
  • Avoiding them to escape mood swings and confrontations
  • Thinking about calling the police if they use or get drugs illegally


Source: Mayo Clinic

Know the signs can save a life

Opioid overdoses are different than other overdoses. Often, a person overdosing on opioid may appear to be sleeping or very intoxicated. These symptoms and signs can quickly be overlooked.
It is important to know the specific signs. Here are some things to look for:
  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Falling asleep or losing consciousness
  • Respiratory depression
  • Choking or gurgling sounds
  • Limp body
  • Cold and/or clammy skin
  • Discolored skin, especially bluish lips and
    nails
Download the Spot an Overdose poster so you can easily remember the signs of an an overdose.
Spot an Overdose poster

SPEAK UP

If you think you or a loved one is misusing opioids, talk with a doctor right away. Do not wait to voice your concerns. Together, you can decide the best steps to take.

HOW TO HELP

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT AN OVERDOSE

It can be hard to tell if someone is overdosing. When in doubt, treat it like an overdose – you can save a life.

1. Call 911 right away.
2. Administer naloxone.
3. Try to keep the person awake and breathing.
4. Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
5. Stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives.

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