If you think someone has taken too many opioids, like heroin, morphine, or strong painkillers, treat it as an emergency straight away.
Try to wake the person up
Call their name, shake their shoulders gently, even rub your knuckles firmly on their chest. If they don’t respond, look at their breathing. Slow, shallow breathing, long pauses, or no breathing at all are big warning signs. You might also notice very small ‘pinpoint’ pupils, blue lips, or a gurgling or snoring sound. Call 999 immediately and say you think it’s an overdose. Stay on the line and follow their instructions. If you have naloxone, sometimes called Narcan, use it right away. It’s a medicine that can reverse opioid overdoses. Give it as instructed. This is usually a nasal spray or injection. Don’t worry about ‘getting it wrong’ as it won’t harm them if opioids aren’t involved.
To become more aware of the safe handling of medication, there are medical courses that are open to everyone. You can find out more at https://www.tidaltraining.co.uk/health-and-social-care-courses/safe-handling-of-medication-training. There are alternatives to opioids for pain relief and these can be effective.
While waiting for help, put them in the recovery position
This is on their side, head tilted back, if they’re breathing but unconscious. This helps keep their airway clear. If they’re not breathing, start CPR. Push hard and fast in the centre of the chest. Stay with them the whole time. Even if they wake up after taking naloxone, they still need medical care because it can wear off and the overdose can re-emerge.