Suspected Opioid Overdose

Opioid overdose is a major public health concern in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 130 people die from drug overdoses each day, with more than half of these deaths attributable to opioids. As more and more individuals are becoming addicted to opioids, there is a growing need to understand potential signs and symptoms of opioid overdose.

What Are The Symptoms Of Opioid Overdose?

The primary signs and symptoms of opioid overdose often involve changes in the person’s mental state. The person may appear disoriented or confused and may become unconscious or unresponsive. Other common signs include:

Loss of consciousness
Extreme drowsiness
Pinpoint pupils
Vomiting
Cold, clammy skin
Bluish tinge to the skin, lips, and fingernails
Slowed or difficult breathing
Limp body

If you think someone has overdosed on an opioid, call 911 immediately. The person may require emergency medical attention and possibly an overdose reversal medication to save their life.

How Can I Prevent An Opioid Overdose?

There are a few steps that you can take to help reduce your risk of an opioid overdose:

Know your opioid medication: Make sure you are familiar with the medications you are taking, including how much and how often to take the medications.
Never mix opioids with alcohol or other medications: Mixing opioids with alcohol or other medications can increase the risk of an overdose.
Always store opioid medications safely: Properly store opioids, such as locking them up where they can’t be found or accessed by others.
Keep naloxone on hand: Have naloxone, a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose, on hand in case of an emergency.

If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid addiction, know that help is available. Treatment options can help you break free from addiction and start a healthier, opioid-free life.