Recognizing an opioid overdose

Recognizing an opioid overdose can be difficult. If you aren’t sure, it is best to treat the situation like an overdose—you could save a life. It is important that you don’t leave the person alone and make sure you call 911 or seek medical care for the individual. Signs may include any of the following:

• Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”
• Falling asleep or loss of consciousness
• Slow, shallow breathing
• Choking or gurgling sounds
• Limp body
• Pale, blue, or cold skin

Naloxone Saves Lives

Naloxone can quickly restore normal breathing and save the life of a person who is overdosing on opioids. Unfortunately, by the time a person having an overdose is reached, it is often too late. Friends, family, and other bystanders can save lives with naloxone. Naloxone distribution programs give naloxone kits to opioid users, their friends and families, and others who may find themselves in a position to save the life of someone at risk of an opioid overdose.

The availability of Narcan trainings that allow laypersons to administer treatment to overdose victims has reduced the number of overdose deaths significantly. States have modified their laws to increase availability and states have instituted Good Samaritan Laws to allow levels of immunity from prosecution when assisting an overdose victim.

How Does Naloxone Work?

Naloxone is an opioid receptor antagonist meaning it binds to opioid receptors and reverses or blocks the effects of other opioids. Giving naloxone immediately reverses the effects of opioid drugs, restoring normal respiration. It can be administered by injection or through a nasal spray.

Is Naloxone Safe?

Yes. There is no evidence of significant adverse reactions to naloxone. Administering naloxone in cases of opioid overdose can cause withdrawal symptoms when the person is dependent on opioids; this is uncomfortable without being life threatening. The risk that someone overdosing on opioids will have a serious adverse reaction to naloxone is far less than their risk of dying from overdose. Naloxone only works if a person has opioids in their system; the medication has no effect if opioids are absent.

Prevention for Opioid Use, Addiction and Overdose

1. Educate educators, the healthcare community and the public regarding opioid dangers.
2. Use caution with prescription pain killers.
3. Address pain and other issues that lead to opioid use and abuse in alternative ways.
4. Increase availability of naloxone.