Overdose management: what to do fast and how to prevent it

Every minute counts when someone overdoses. If a person looks unusually sleepy, breathes slowly, or can’t be woken, act right away. This page gives clear, no-nonsense steps to handle common overdoses, when to call for help, and how to reduce the risk of it happening again.

Recognize an overdose — what to look for

Signs vary by substance, but these are common red flags: very slow or shallow breathing, blue or pale lips and nails, loss of consciousness, severe confusion, vomiting while unresponsive, abnormal pulse, seizures, and extreme agitation. Opioid overdoses often include pinpoint pupils and stopped breathing. Stimulant overdoses (like cocaine or meth) can cause very fast heart rate, high temperature, chest pain, or seizures. If you’re unsure which drug is involved, treat the situation as an emergency.

What to do right now

1) Call emergency services immediately (911 in the US). Tell them you suspect an overdose and share as much detail as you can—what was taken, how much, and when. 2) If the person isn’t breathing or has no pulse, start CPR if you’re trained. Follow dispatcher instructions until help arrives. 3) For known or suspected opioid overdoses, give naloxone if available. Naloxone can reverse opioid effects and restore breathing; it comes as a nasal spray or injection. Use it and still call emergency services—repeat doses may be needed. 4) If the person is breathing but unconscious, place them on their side in the recovery position to keep the airway clear and reduce choking risk. 5) Don’t make them vomit and don’t give anything by mouth unless a medical professional tells you to. Remove any nearby drugs or paraphernalia so responders know what might have been taken.

If possible, bring the medication containers, pill bottles, or any substance packaging to the hospital. That helps doctors choose the right treatment fast. Poison control centers are also a good resource—call 1-800-222-1222 in the US for immediate guidance.

If activated charcoal or other treatments are suggested, let trained medical staff administer them. Some interventions are time-sensitive and best handled in a hospital or by emergency responders.

After the medical emergency, ask clinicians about follow-up care: mental health support, addiction services, or changes in medications. Overdose is often a sign that someone needs more support, not blame.

Prevention matters. Store medications safely, toss unused pills through local take-back programs, never mix central nervous system depressants (like opioids and alcohol), and use single doses as prescribed. Consider carrying naloxone if you or someone you care for uses opioids; many communities offer free kits and training. Learn basic CPR and local Good Samaritan laws so you can act without fear of legal trouble.

LemonAidHealth.com has practical drug guides and safety tips to help you stay prepared. If you want quick resources for specific medicines or harm-reduction tools, check our site or contact local health services for training and naloxone information.