Signs of a drug overdose
Knowing the signs of a drug overdose could save someone's life. Here's what you need to know.
Someone may have had a drug overdose if ...
- They don’t wake up when you talk loudly to them or gently shake them by the shoulders
- Their lips and fingernails have a bluish tinge (if they have lighter skin) or a greyish tinge (if they have darker skin)
- The pupils of their eyes are very small
- They look pale and clammy
- They are making a loud noise as they breathe, or choking sounds
- Their breathing is slow, shallow or irregular, or they are not breathing at all
- There are signs that they have vomited
- They are unable to speak
- They are confused
These are all signs of an overdose of sedative drugs like heroin and methadone.
If you suspect someone has had a drug overdose ...
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Make sure it’s safe for you to approach the person
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Try to wake them by talking loudly to them and gently shaking their shoulders
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Check if they're breathing by looking to see if their chest is moving
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Put them in the recovery position
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Call 999 for an ambulance, telling emergency services what you know
Naloxone
If you suspect someone has overdosed, it’s always best to administer naloxone. Naloxone reverses the effects of opioid drugs like heroin, morphine and fentanyl.
Drugs bought illicitly can contain a mixture of substances, including opioids, so use naloxone if you have it. If someone hasn’t overdosed on opioids, naloxone won’t harm them.
Looking for support?
If you are concerned about your drug use, or someone else’s, we're WithYou.
We provide free support and services across England and Scotland and can help you with any substance you want to address.
Not ready to access a service? Trained advisors are available through our webchat, seven days a week.