Overdoses can happen quickly and unexpectedly—but knowing what to do can save a life. If someone around you overdoses, your calm response and quick actions could make all the difference.
How to Help Someone Who’s Overdosed
- Call 999 immediately. Tell the operator where you are and stay on the line.
- Keep them warm.
- If they’re unconscious or unresponsive, place them in the recovery position (on their side, with their head tilted slightly back).
- Don’t leave them lying on their back.
- If they’re awake, keep them upright and encourage them to stay alert.
- Be ready to give CPR if they stop breathing.
- Clear the area of hazards if they’re having seizures or spasms.
Remember:
Stay calm, and never put yourself at risk. If you know what they took and how much, let the paramedics know. It helps them provide the right treatment faster.
What Not to Do
It’s just as important to know what not to do in these situations. If someone is suspected of overdosing:
- Do not let them ‘sleep it off’. Their condition could worsen.
- Do not give coffee. It can make dehydration worse.
- Do not make them vomit. They could choke.
- Do not walk them around. Poor balance could lead to injury.
- Do not put them in a cold shower. It could lead to hypothermia.
- Do not give them more alcohol or substances. It may worsen the overdose.
Signs of an Overdose: Know What to Look For
Different substances cause different symptoms. Here’s what to watch for:
Alcohol:
- Confusion, vomiting
- Irregular or slow breathing
- Pale or blue skin
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
Stimulants (e.g., cocaine, ecstasy):
- Chest pain, headaches
- Severe agitation or panic
- Tremors or seizures
- Confusion, psychotic symptoms
New Psychoactive Substances (NPS):
- Rigid muscles, shaking, overheating
- Difficulty breathing or unconsciousness
- Paranoia, aggression, confusion
Opioids (e.g., heroin, methadone):
- Unusual snoring/gurgling
- Shallow or stopped breathing
- Blue lips/fingertips
- Floppy limbs, unresponsiveness
Depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines):
- Blue lips/nails, vomiting
- Slow or no breathing
- Gurgling noises, limp body
- Loss of consciousness
Methamphetamine:
- Sweaty skin, rigid muscles, spasms
- Confusion, panic, psychotic symptoms
- Seizures, difficulty breathing
Naloxone: A Life-Saving Medicine
Naloxone is a medication that reverses opioid overdoses. It works on drugs like heroin, methadone, codeine, and morphine. If used quickly, it can save a life before emergency services arrive.
However, naloxone only works for a short time—you must still call 999 immediately and stay with the person until help arrives.
You Are Not Alone
We’re here to help. If you’re worried about overdose risks for yourself or someone you care about, get in touch. We can provide advice, support, and free naloxone kits.
We offer free Naloxone training to professionals, family members and the wider community. Visit our training page for more information.