In 2023 alone, more than 105,000 people in the U.S. died from a drug-involved overdose. It’s a staggering number that reflects the growing urgency for overdose awareness and education. Whether it’s a loved one struggling with addiction or an accidental combination of substances, being able to recognize the signs of overdose and knowing how to respond is critical.
Let’s walk through the common symptoms of overdose by drug type, what to do in a crisis, and how treatment centers like Riverside Recovery can support the next step in healing.
Signs of Overdose by Substance
Different drugs affect the body in different ways, but most overdoses share a few core warning signs, especially when breathing, heart rate, or consciousness is impaired. Below are breakdowns of overdose symptoms for some of the most commonly misused substances.
Alcohol Overdose Signs
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. In high doses, it can slow breathing and heart rate to dangerous levels.
Signs include:
- Confusion or unresponsiveness
- Vomiting
- Irregular or slow breathing (more than 10 seconds between breaths)
- Blue-tinged or pale skin
- Low body temperature (hypothermia)
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
Opioid Overdose Signs
Opioids dull the senses and suppress the body’s natural drive to breathe.
Signs include:
- No response to stimuli
- Slow or stopped breathing
- Blue or grey lips or fingertips
- Gurgling or unusual snoring
- Floppy arms and legs
- Loss of consciousness
Stimulant Overdose Signs (Cocaine, Meth, MDMA)
Stimulants increase alertness and heart rate but can overstimulate the body.
Physical signs include:
- Flushed or sweaty skin
- Headaches or chest pain
- Rigid muscles, tremors, or seizures
- Difficulty breathing
Psychological signs include:
- Severe agitation, panic, or confusion
- Psychosis (hallucinations or paranoia)
- Disorientation
Depressant Overdose Signs (Benzodiazepines, Alcohol, Barbiturates)
Depressants can cause respiratory suppression, especially when mixed with other drugs.
Signs include:
- Vomiting
- Unresponsive but conscious
- Shallow or erratic breathing
- Blue nails or lips
- Limp body or choking sounds
- Loss of consciousness
Meth Overdose Signs
Meth can cause seizures and heart strain even in small amounts.
Physical signs include:
- Sweaty, hot skin
- Chest pain or headaches
- Unsteady movements, spasms
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
Psychological signs include:
- Paranoia
- Severe anxiety or confusion
- Agitation
NPS (Novel Psychoactive Substances) Overdose Signs
These synthetic drugs are substances made to act similarly to other drugs, such as cannabis, ecstasy, or cocaine. They are often wrongly marketed as “safer” or legal alternatives to these drugs.
Symptoms of overdose can vary widely, but common signs may include:
Physical:
- Rigid or spasming muscles
- Shaking, nausea, vomiting
- Stopped breathing
- Seizures
- Inability to wake the person
Psychological:
- Distress, paranoia, or confusion
- Aggression or panic
What to Do During an Overdose
Recognizing the signs of overdose is only half the battle. Knowing how to respond quickly and appropriately can make all the difference.
If someone may be overdosing:
- Call 911 immediately. Even if you’re unsure, it’s better to be safe. Many states have Good Samaritan laws protecting you from prosecution when seeking emergency help.
- Stay with the person. Keep them awake if possible, or place them in the recovery position if unconscious (on their side, head tilted back).
- Administer naloxone (Narcan) if available. This can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
- Follow dispatcher instructions. Emergency personnel may guide you through life-saving steps.
What Not to Do During an Overdose
Misinformation and panic can sometimes lead to dangerous decisions. Avoid the following:
- Don’t try to wake them up by slapping or shaking them. This could cause further injury.
- Don’t put them in a cold shower. It can lead to shock or hypothermia.
- Don’t make them vomit. This is ineffective and dangerous if they are unconscious.
- Don’t leave them alone. Time is critical.
After Emergency Care: Riverside Recovery Can Help
Once emergency care has stabilized the individual, the next question is often: What now? That’s where Riverside Recovery comes in.
Our treatment programs begin with safe, medically supervised detox to help patients withdraw from substances in a controlled environment. From there, we offer comprehensive addiction treatment programs tailored to each individual’s needs.
We treat the whole person, physically, mentally, and emotionally, to support long-term recovery. If you or someone you love has experienced an overdose or is at risk, our team is here to help guide the next steps.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
You don’t have to wait for a crisis to get support, but if one has already happened, know that recovery is still possible. Contact Riverside Recovery to learn about detox options, inpatient and outpatient programs, and how we help individuals reclaim their lives, safely, compassionately, and effectively.