Opioid Overdose: React Fast to Prevent the Worst

Do you know someone taking opioids prescribed by a doctor or bought illegally? Here’s what you need to know to help them if they overdose.

Know the Signs

Recognizing the symptoms of an opioid overdose can save a life. If someone you know is showing the following symptoms, they may be overdosing:

• Blue or Gray Tinge: Their lips and fingernails have a blue or gray tinge.
• Cold and Clammy Skin: Their skin feels cold and clammy to the touch.
• Difficulty Talking, Walking, or Staying Awake: They struggle with basic activities and might seem disoriented.
• Unresponsiveness: They don’t react when you make a noise or shout their name.
• Breathing Problems: They struggle to breathe or stop breathing altogether.
• Unconsciousness: They remain unconscious even if you aggressively rub their sternum.

Act Fast

If you suspect someone is overdosing, it is crucial to act quickly. Here’s what you should do:

1. Call 911: Immediately call emergency services and follow the instructions given to you.
2. Administer Naloxone: If available, administer naloxone, an antidote for opioid overdoses. It can temporarily reverse the effects of an overdose.
3. Perform Chest Compressions or Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation: If necessary, perform these life-saving techniques to keep the person breathing.
4. Monitor the Person: If the person regains consciousness, gently turn them on their side and wait for help to arrive. This position helps prevent choking if they vomit.
5. Be Prepared to Administer a Second Dose: The effects of naloxone are limited, so you may need to administer a second dose if the person relapses into an overdose state.

Remember, no matter what, the person must always be taken to the hospital, even if they seem to recover. Professional medical care is essential to ensure their safety.

What’s Naloxone?

Naloxone is a life-saving antidote to opioid overdoses. It works by quickly reversing the effects of opioids on the brain and restoring normal breathing. Naloxone is available in various forms, including intranasal sprays and injectable solutions. In its intranasal form, it is often available for free and without a prescription from many pharmacies and community organizations.

Having naloxone on hand and knowing how to use it can make a critical difference in an emergency. Training sessions and resources are often provided by local health departments and community organizations, ensuring that more people are equipped to respond to an overdose.

Be Prepared, Save a Life

Opioid overdoses can happen to anyone taking these powerful medications, whether prescribed or obtained illegally. Being informed, prepared, and ready to act can save lives. By knowing the signs of an overdose, having access to naloxone, and understanding the steps to take in an emergency, you can help prevent a tragic outcome.