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CAUSES OF OPIOID OVERDOSE

An opioid overdose takes place when levels of opioids are too high in a person’s system, causing them to lose consciousness and stop breathing. An overdose can happen suddenly or come on slowly over the course of a few hours. Without oxygen, the result can be fatal.

RISKS FOR OVERDOSE

RESPONDING TO AN OVERDOSE

Every minute counts. If you think someone has overdosed, do the following:

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Check for signs of opioid overdose

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Call 911

Give Naloxone

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Perform rescue breaths

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Stay with the person until help arrives

SIGNS OF AN OVERDOSE

  • SLOW OR NO BREATHING.

  • WON'T WAKE UP.

  • PALE, ASHY, COOL SKIN.

  • BLUE LIPS OR FINGERNAILS.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OPIOID OVERDOSE AT:

WHAT IS NALOXONE?

Naloxone is a prescription medicine that temporarily stops the effect of opioids. It helps a person begin breathing again and wake up from an overdose. It only works on opioid overdoses and cannot be used to get high, nor is it addictive. It can be easily and safely administered by anyone. All first responders carry Naloxone.