An overdose can happen suddenly. Knowing the common symptoms and what to do can save a life. This page focuses on clear, practical signs for different drug types and simple steps you can take right away.
Not every overdose looks the same, but some red flags are common: extreme drowsiness or unconsciousness, very slow or stopped breathing, tiny pupils, pale or clammy skin, seizures, vomiting while passed out, confusion, fast or erratic heartbeat, or severe agitation. If someone can’t be woken or is breathing fewer than eight times a minute, treat it as an emergency.
Opioid overdoses (heroin, fentanyl, prescription opioids) often cause slow breathing, tiny pupils, limp body, and unresponsiveness. Stimulant overdoses (cocaine, amphetamines) usually cause racing heart, chest pain, overheating, severe anxiety, or seizures. Benzodiazepine overdoses (like Xanax) cause extreme drowsiness and slowed breathing, especially when mixed with alcohol or opioids. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdoses can be sneaky: the first day may feel mild, but liver damage can develop over 24–72 hours—look for nausea, belly pain, and jaundice later on.
Step 1: Call emergency services immediately. Tell them what drug you suspect and any symptoms. Step 2: Try to keep the person awake and breathing. If they’re unconscious but breathing, put them in the recovery position (on their side) to avoid choking. Step 3: If breathing has slowed or stopped, start rescue breaths and CPR if you’re trained.
For opioid overdoses, naloxone (Narcan) can reverse symptoms fast. If you have naloxone, give it right away and follow the instructions. After naloxone, breathing may return, but effects can wear off—keep emergency services on the way and stay with the person.
Do not make someone vomit unless a poison control or emergency dispatcher tells you to. Avoid giving food, drink, or other drugs unless instructed. If the person is seizing, clear the area of hard objects and time the seizure. Don’t hold their tongue or put anything in their mouth.
Prevention tips: keep medications stored safely, don’t mix substances, use prescribed doses, and learn naloxone use if you or someone you care for uses opioids. If you worry about an intentional overdose, take it seriously—contact local crisis services or emergency help right away.
Recognizing signs quickly and acting without hesitation can make the difference. If you’re unsure, call emergency services—it's better to be safe. Immediate action, clear info for responders, and staying with the person until help arrives are the best things you can do.
