What to Look For

An overdose is a medical emergency. Seconds matter. Look for these signs:

• Breathing: Slow, shallow, gurgling, or stopped breathing.
• Responsiveness: Person will not wake up to a loud shout or firm sternal rub.
• Color: Pale, gray, or blue-tinged lips, fingernails, or skin.

1. Check: Shout their name and perform a “sternal rub.”
2. Give: Administer Naloxone (Narcan). Wait 2 minutes before a second dose.
3. Support: Put them in the rescue position (on their side).
4. Call: Call 911 if no response after multiple doses.
5. Stay: Stay with the person until help arrives.