The opioid overdose epidemic is a national health crisis, and it’s why we all need to know what to do if we witness an overdose.
There were 79,384 drug overdose deaths in the US in 2024.
One national analysis of drug overdoses from 2010 through 2020 estimated approximately 15 nonfatal overdoses for every fatal overdose. This needs to be addressed.
The age-adjusted overdose death rate declined by 26.2% from 2023, representing the largest one-year decrease ever recorded. More recent provisional data predict 68,641 deaths during the 12-month period ending in February 2026, a 12.1% decrease from the prior 12-month period.
These declines are significant, but tens of thousands of preventable deaths still occur each year. This is a significant indicator of the effectiveness of naloxone administration for anyone experiencing a suspected opioid overdose.
We recommend carrying naloxone and understanding how to administer it in case someone has an overdose.
Symptoms and Indications of an Overdose:
- Shallow Breathing
- Snoring/Gurgling
- Blue or Gray Skin
- Dark Lips & Fingertips
- No Response to Stimuli
- Pinpoint Pupils
Note: If you can’t get them to respond, don’t assume they are asleep. Not all overdoses happen quickly, and sometimes it can take hours for someone to die. Taking action in those hours means you could save a life.
What to Do:
- This is a medical emergency: Call 911 for a first responder immediately.
- Try to get the person to respond.
- Administer CPR if you are qualified.
- Rub knuckles on the breast bone.
- If they respond, keep them awake and breathing.
- If their skin is blue, perform mouth to mouth rescue breathing.
- Stay with the person. If you must leave, place the person in a recovery position (on their left side).
- Look around the victim to see if they are carrying NARCAN® (Naloxone), or have it in the vicinity, or if anyone in the area has it… and administer it! Keep in mind, it can take more than one dose of naloxone to revive a person who has overdosed. There is no harm in giving multiple doses to a person in an attempt to revive them. Learn more about Naloxone.
What Not to Do:
Do not put the person in a cold bath.
Do not inject them with saltwater or stimulant drugs (methamphetamine).
Do not try to have them walk it off or sleep it off.
Do not induce vomiting.
Learn more about substances and how to respond to an overdose with these free downloadable fact-sheets courtesy of International Overdose Awareness Day:
Learn More
What is Naloxone?
Have a Safety Plan
State Naloxone Access Rules and Resources
