Recognizing drug overdose signs and learning about treatments can help save lives.
Some signs, however, are more common than others.
Knowing these can assist you in seeking help and managing an overdose until it arrives.
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What Is a Drug Overdose?
Overdoses often happen accidentally, even when someone takes a drug as prescribed.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
Why Overdoses Happen
Drug overdoses can occur for a number of reasons.
Overdoses of over-the-counter drugs may be even more harmful and irreversible than controlled drugs.
They will also monitor the patient’s vital signs and work to improve them, if necessary.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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National Institute on Drug Abuse.What are prescription CNS depressants?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Stimulant guide.
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Understanding the dangers of alcohol overdose.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Reverse overdose to prevent death.
National Institute on Drug Abuse.What is naloxone?
U. S. Food and Drug Administration.FDA approves first over-the-counter naloxone nasal spray.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Overdose prevention.
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