An overdose happens when a person takes more of a drug, or a combination of drugs, than their body can handle. With opioids like heroin, fentanyl and prescription pain relievers, an overdose slows or stops a person’s breathing, which can cause brain damage or death.
What Raises the Risk
Taking drugs that may contain fentanyl, often without knowing it
Mixing drugs, such as opioids with alcohol, sedatives or stimulants
Using again after a break, when the body’s tolerance is lower
Using alone, with no one there to help
Signs of an Opioid Overdose
Small, constricted “pinpoint” pupils
Falling asleep or losing consciousness
Slow, shallow breathing
Choking or gurgling sounds
Limp body
Cold, clammy or discolored skin, especially lips and nails
What to Do
Call 911 right away.
Give naloxone (Narcan) if you have it. If the person is still unresponsive after 2–3 minutes, give a second dose.
Try to keep the person awake and breathing, and lay them on their side to prevent choking.
Stay with them until help arrives.
If you aren’t sure whether someone is overdosing, treat it like an overdose. You could save a life. Most states have laws that may protect a person who is overdosing, or the person who called for help, from criminal penalties.
In Maine, you can find free naloxone and training at GetMaineNaloxone.org. If you or someone you love needs support, call Maine 211 or contact PVHI at (207) 955-6844.
Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: cdc.gov/stop-overdose
