What Are the Signs of an Opioid Overdose?

Symptoms and Indications of an Overdose:

  • Respiratory depression: slow and shallow breathing or stopping of breathing

  • Making snoring or gurgling sounds

  • Blue or gray skin color

  • Dark lips and fingernails

  • Unable to talk

  • Disorientation

  • Pinpoint pupils

  • Decreased level of consciousness, can’t be woken up

  • No response to stimuli

  • Drug paraphernalia in the vicinity

**IF SOMEONE IS EXPERIENCING A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY**

It is rare for someone to die immediately from an overdose – it is usually a slowish process that takes anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. Survival often depends on someone nearby recognizing the signs and responding quickly.