Signs of an Overdose: What to Know and What to Do
If you think someone is overdosing, call 911 immediately. This page explains how to recognize an overdose and what to do while help is on the way.
Recognizing an Overdose
An overdose occurs when someone takes more of a substance than the body can safely process, causing toxic effects that can be life-threatening. Overdoses can happen with both illegal drugs and prescription medications, and they can happen to people of any age, any background, and any level of experience with substances.
Recognizing an overdose quickly and responding appropriately can save a life. The signs differ somewhat depending on the substance involved, but the following are the most important to know.
Signs of an Opioid Overdose
Opioid overdose is one of the most common and most deadly forms of overdose, and fentanyl-contaminated drug supplies have made accidental overdose a risk for anyone using street drugs, even those who believe they are using a different substance. The signs of opioid overdose include:
- Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness, the person cannot be woken up
- Very slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
- Choking, gurgling, or snoring sounds
- Extremely small, pinpoint pupils
- Blue, gray, or pale lips, fingertips, or skin (cyanosis)
- Limp body
- Slow or stopped heartbeat
If you see these signs, call 911 immediately. Do not leave the person alone. If naloxone (Narcan) is available, administer it right away.
Signs of an Alcohol Overdose
Alcohol overdose, also called alcohol poisoning, occurs when blood alcohol concentration reaches a level that impairs basic life functions. Signs include:
- Confusion or stupor
- Vomiting while unconscious or semiconscious
- Seizures
- Slow or irregular breathing (fewer than 8 breaths per minute)
- Blue-tinged or pale skin
- Low body temperature
- Unconsciousness and cannot be awakened
A common and dangerous myth is that someone who is unconscious from alcohol will sleep it off. This is not true. Blood alcohol levels can continue to rise even after someone stops drinking. Call 911 if you see these signs.
Signs of a Stimulant Overdose
Stimulant overdose, including cocaine and methamphetamine overdose, can cause:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Racing or irregular heartbeat
- Extremely elevated body temperature
- Seizures
- Stroke symptoms, including sudden weakness on one side, facial drooping, or difficulty speaking
- Severe anxiety or panic
- Loss of consciousness
What to Do If You Suspect an Overdose
Call 911 Immediately
Do not wait to see if the person recovers on their own. Call 911 immediately if you suspect an overdose of any kind. Tell the dispatcher what substance you believe was taken if you know. Colorado has a Medical Amnesty Law that provides legal protection to people who call 911 for an overdose in good faith.
Administer Naloxone If Available
If you suspect an opioid overdose and naloxone (Narcan) is available, administer it immediately. Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that reverses opioid overdose by blocking opioid receptors. It is available without a prescription at most pharmacies in Colorado. Administer naloxone as directed and call 911. The person may need more than one dose, particularly if fentanyl is involved.
Keep the Person Safe While Waiting for Help
If the person is breathing, place them in the recovery position: on their side with their mouth facing down, to prevent choking if they vomit. Stay with them and monitor their breathing. If they stop breathing and you are trained in CPR, begin rescue breathing.
Do Not Leave Them Alone
Do not leave the person alone while waiting for emergency services. Overdoses can progress rapidly and the situation can change.
How Does Naloxone Work?
Naloxone (brand name Narcan) is an opioid antagonist that works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the effects of opioids. When administered to someone experiencing an opioid overdose, it can restore normal breathing within two to five minutes. It has no effect on non-opioid overdoses.
Naloxone is available in nasal spray and injectable forms. In Colorado, it can be obtained without a prescription at most pharmacies. Many harm reduction organizations also distribute naloxone for free. If you or someone you know uses opioids, having naloxone available can be lifesaving.
After an Overdose: What Comes Next
A non-fatal overdose is a serious medical event and a critical moment for intervention. Research consistently shows that the period immediately following an overdose represents a window of increased openness to treatment. Denver Recovery works with individuals and families who are ready to take the next step after an overdose event.
If you or someone you love has survived an overdose and is ready to explore treatment options in Denver or Lakewood, Colorado, our team is here to help. Treatment is available, recovery is possible, and we are ready to help you find the right path forward.
Denver Recovery serves individuals and families in Denver, Lakewood, Aurora, Golden, Jefferson County, and across the greater Colorado region.
Frequently Asked Questions: Overdose Signs
What are the signs of an overdose?
Signs of an opioid overdose include unresponsiveness, very slow or stopped breathing, blue or pale lips and skin, pinpoint pupils, and limpness. Signs of alcohol overdose include unconsciousness that cannot be interrupted, slow or irregular breathing, vomiting while unconscious, and seizures. Signs of stimulant overdose include chest pain, racing or irregular heartbeat, seizures, and stroke symptoms. When in doubt, call 911.
What should I do if I suspect an overdose?
Call 911 immediately. If you suspect an opioid overdose and naloxone is available, administer it. Place the person in the recovery position if they are breathing. Stay with them and do not leave them alone. Tell the 911 dispatcher what you know about the substance involved. Colorado's Medical Amnesty Law protects people who call 911 for an overdose in good faith.
How does naloxone work?
Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that binds to the same receptors in the brain that opioids bind to, rapidly displacing the opioid and reversing its effects. In the context of an overdose, it restores normal breathing within minutes. Naloxone only works on opioid overdoses and has no effect on overdoses involving alcohol, stimulants, or other non-opioid substances. It is available without a prescription at most Colorado pharmacies.
When should I call 911 for an overdose?
Call 911 immediately any time you suspect an overdose. Do not wait to see if the person recovers. Do not try to manage the situation on your own. In Colorado, you are protected by the Medical Amnesty Law when calling for help in an overdose situation. The moments immediately after recognizing an overdose are critical. Fast action saves lives.
Next step
Help Is Available
If someone you care about has experienced an overdose, or if you are concerned about your own or someone else's substance use, Denver Recovery is here to help. Reach out today for a confidential conversation about treatment options in Denver and Lakewood, Colorado.