What is opioid overdose?

Opioids are strong pain medicines. Examples include hydrocodone, oxycodone, fentanyl, and morphine. Heroin is an example of an illegal opioid. Taking too much of any opioid is called an overdose. When this happens, you get very sleepy. Your breathing slows down or stops. This can cause death.

Taking too much of an opioid can cause symptoms such as trouble breathing, low blood pressure, or a low heart rate. Some people have pinpoint pupils. An opioid overdose can also lead to a coma or death.

An opioid overdose is a medical emergency. Paramedics may give naloxone right away based on your symptoms. This medicine reverses the effects of an overdose. At the hospital, your doctor will do an exam. You may need tests, such as a blood test or an ECG, to confirm an overdose and look for problems.

The doctor may give you a medicine called naloxone to help reverse the effects of the opioid. You may need fluids and oxygen to help you breathe. In severe cases, CPR may be done.

• Take your medicines as prescribed. Do not mix alcohol with medicines that make you tired, like sleeping pills or muscle relaxers.
• If you have withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, sweating, chills, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and muscle aches:
  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Drink plenty of fluids.
  • Stay active, but don't overdo it.
  • Eat a variety of healthy foods.
• Sip liquids if you have a sore throat. You may have had a tube in your throat to help you breathe.
• Do not drive if you feel sleepy or groggy while you recover from an overdose.
• Get help to stop using opioids. Talk to your doctor about substance use treatment programs.
• Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about having a naloxone rescue kit on hand.