How to respond to an overdose
Naloxone (Narcan) reverses an opioid overdose. It’s safe, easy to use, and sold without a prescription.
Signs of an overdose
- Won’t wake up or respond
- Slow, shallow or stopped breathing
- Gurgling or snoring sounds
- Blue or gray lips and fingertips
- Very small pupils
- Limp body, cold or clammy skin
Most states have Good Samaritan laws that offer some legal protection to people who call 911 during an overdose. Protections vary by state.
- Try to wake themShout their name and rub your knuckles hard on the center of their chest.
- Call 911Say “someone is not breathing” and give the address. You can put the phone on speaker.
- Give naloxoneLay them on their back, put the nozzle in one nostril, and press the plunger all the way.
- Help them breatheIf you’re trained, give rescue breaths. If not, roll them onto their side so they don’t choke.
- Stay with themIf they don’t respond in 2 to 3 minutes, give another dose in the other nostril. Stay until help arrives; naloxone can wear off.