Signs of an Overdose
Scroll to the next section for Overdose Response Steps.
Slow, shallow or stopped breathing
Sleepy and unable to talk, or unconscious
Loud snoring or gurgling sounds
Lips or fingertips turning blue
Pale or grayish skin
Note: These are some of the most common signs of overdose, but others may occur. When in doubt, call 911.
Overdose Response Steps
01
Get Their Attention
Lightly tap, shake and shout at the person to get a response. If there is still no response, firmly rub your knuckles down the middle of the person’s chest.
If the person responds, keep them awake.
02
Call 9-1-1
If you get little or no response, call 9-1-1 FIRST, and tell them your location and the person’s symptoms
03
Give Naloxone
- If you have Naloxone, place the tip of nozzle (on device) in either nostril until your fingers touch the bottom of the person’s nose.
- Press the plunger firmly to release dose into nose.
- Give second dose if first dose does not work within 1–3 minutes.
04
Support Breathing
- Lay the person on their back.
- Tilt the chin back. Remove anything blocking airway.
- Pinch the person’s nose closed and cover their mouth with your mouth.
- Blow two regular breaths, then give one breath every five seconds.
- Do chest compressions if trained in CPR.
05
Care for the Person
- Stay with the person until medical help arrives.
- Place the person in recovery position; face and head turned to the side, top hand placed under head, and top knee bent to support the body.
Overdose FAQs
Quick answers to common concerns about overdose response.
What if I’m not sure it’s an overdose?
Give Naloxone anyway. It only works if opioids are involved, and it won’t harm the person if they’ve taken something else.
Can I get in trouble for helping someone?
No. Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law protects you from arrest or prosecution for drug or alcohol possession when you help during an overdose.
Should I still call 911 if I give Naloxone?
Yes. Naloxone wears off in 30–90 minutes and the person may still be at risk.
What if I’ve never used Naloxone before?
That’s okay. The nasal spray is easy to use — and we have a 44-second Nalocone training video that shows you exactly what to do.
What if the person wakes up confused or angry?
That’s common. Stay calm, let them know they were given Naloxone, and wait with them until help arrives.
Get Naloxone (Narcan) and Be Ready to Respond
Watch the 44-second Naloxone training video to learn how to reverse an opioid overdose. Then, request a free Naloxone (Narcan) kit for your home, office, or community.
