What to do in Case of an Overdose
It is not common for an opioid user to die from an overdose immediately. This is why getting help right away is so important – people survive because someone was there to help.
- Call 911 and follow the operator’s directions.
- Give as much information as possible, including how much drugs the person took and when they took it.
- Check for breathing and heart rate.
- If the person is unconscious, try to wake them. If you cannot wake the person, rub your knuckles on their sternum (center of the chest or rib cage).
- Get your naloxone, also known as Narcan. If you don’t have any, ask if anyone nearby does.
- If the person is not breathing, turn them on their side so they do not choke on vomit and proceed with Narcan (see how). If you are trained in CPR, begin chest compressions.
- Stay calm, let the person know that help is coming, and wait for medical professionals to arrive.
In case of an emergency or if you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, call 911. For more information about treatment and resources in Connecticut, call our 24/7 Access Line at 1-800-563-4086.
Call the Access Line