19/06/2026
What To Do in the Event of a Drug Overdose
Recognizing an Overdose and Acting Quickly Can Save a Life
An overdose is a medical emergency that occurs when a person takes too much of a substance, such as drugs, alcohol, or medication. Overdoses can happen accidentally or intentionally and can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or substance use history.
Knowing what to do in the event of an overdose can mean the difference between life and death. Quick action can save a person's life and prevent serious complications.
What Is an Overdose?
An overdose happens when the body is overwhelmed by a substance and can no longer function normally. Different substances affect the body in different ways, but all overdoses require immediate medical attention.
Common substances involved in overdoses include:
• Opioids (he**in, morphine, fentanyl, codeine)
• Prescription medications
• Alcohol
• Stimulants (co***ne, methamphetamine)
• Multiple substances used together
Warning Signs of an Overdose
The signs of an overdose can vary depending on the substance involved. However, some common warning signs include:
Opioid Overdose Signs
• Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
• Blue or grey lips and fingertips
• Unresponsiveness
• Pinpoint pupils
• Limp body
• Gurgling, choking, or snoring sounds
Stimulant Overdose Signs
• Chest pain
• Rapid heartbeat
• Seizures
• High body temperature
• Panic, agitation, or confusion
• Loss of consciousness
Alcohol Overdose Signs
• Vomiting while unconscious
• Slow or irregular breathing
• Pale or bluish skin
• Inability to wake up
• Seizures
What To Do Immediately
1. Call Emergency Services
Call emergency medical services immediately if you suspect an overdose. Do not wait to see if the person improves. Medical professionals can provide life-saving treatment while en route to the hospital.
Provide:
• The person's age and condition
• What substance may have been used
• Your exact location
• Whether the person is breathing
2. Check for Responsiveness
Try to wake the person by:
• Calling their name loudly
• Gently shaking their shoulders
If they do not respond, treat the situation as an emergency.
3. Check Breathing
Look for signs of breathing:
• Chest movement
• Airflow from the nose or mouth
• Breathing sounds
If the person is not breathing or breathing is very slow, emergency medical assistance is urgently needed.
4. Place Them in the Recovery Position
If the person is unconscious but breathing:
• Roll them onto their side.
• Bend the top knee to stabilize the body.
• Tilt the head slightly back to keep the airway open.
This position helps prevent choking if the person vomits.
5. Stay With the Person
Never leave a person who may be overdosing alone.
Continue to:
• Monitor breathing
• Keep them awake if possible
• Reassure them if they regain consciousness
• Wait for medical professionals to arrive
What Not To Do
Many common myths can be dangerous during an overdose.
Do NOT:
• Put the person in a cold bath or shower
• Force them to walk around
• Give them food, drinks, or coffee
• Induce vomiting
• Leave them alone to "sleep it off"
These actions can increase the risk of serious injury or death.
Prevention Tips
While overdoses are not always predictable, certain steps can reduce the risk:
• Take medications only as prescribed.
• Avoid mixing drugs and alcohol.
• Seek treatment for substance use concerns.
• Learn the signs of overdose.
• Keep emergency numbers accessible.
• Consider carrying naloxone if opioid use is a concern.
Recovery and Support
Surviving an overdose is often a sign that professional help is needed. Recovery is possible with the right support and treatment.
Treatment options may include:
• Medical detoxification
• Inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation
• Individual counselling
• Group therapy
• Family support services
• Ongoing recovery programs
Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it is a courageous step toward healing and a healthier future.
Say No to Drugs
RENEW ADULT ADDICTION RECOVERY CLINIC
Reach out to us today for compassionate guidance and personalised assistance.
071 514 5048
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81B Pretoria Road, Rynfield, Benoni
www.renewrehab.co.za