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An overdose (OD) happens when you take too much of a drug (or combination of drugs) and it overwhelms your body.
- ODs do not have to be fatal. The difference between life and death often depends on how you take care of the person who has overdosed.
- Anyone who uses drugs can OD, from a first-time user to a veteran.
How do ODs happen?
- Taking too much of a drug in too short of a time.
- Mixing different drugs: drugs taken together can interact in ways that increase their overall effects.
- If you are on certain medications.
- If you are unaware of an existing medical condition.
- The drug you purchased is not what you thought it was.
- Dehydration or overheating.
Risks of an OD:
An OD can cause a bad time, permanent physiological damage, or death. Death can result from:
- seizure
- your breathing stops
- choking (on vomit)
How to spot an OD… the person may have one or more of these signs:
Depressants/Downers (GHB, K, Alcohol, Heroin)
- throwing up
- passed out (can't wake them or keep them awake)
- hardly breathing or not breathing at all
- weak or no pulse (check wrist and neck)
- pale or blue-coloured face or lips
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Stimulants/Uppers (Coke, Crystal, Ecstasy)
- throwing up
- pressure, tightness, or pain in the chest
- shaking, twitching, or seizures
- skin feels hot to the touch
- racing or irregular pulse
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What to do if someone ODs:
Don't wait to see if they are OK. Act right away.
NEVER give other drugs to counteract (it's one more drug their body has to deal with).
Is the person conscious? Try to wake them: call their name, shake them, pinch their skin - don't be afraid to hurt them ... you want them to wake up!
If they are conscious:
- Stay with them.
- Keep them awake.
- Cool them down if they are hot.
- Let the drugs wear off.
- Don't be afraid to take them to a hospital if you are not comfortable helping.
If they are not conscious:
- If they are breathing, put them in the recovery position so they don't choke on any vomit (see below). Monitor their breathing.
- If they are not breathing, call 911. Tell them someone is unconscious and not breathing (you do not have to mention that drugs are involved).
- Perform CPR if you know how.
- When paramedics arrive, tell them as much as you can about the types and amount of drugs consumed.
- If you are concerned about the police showing up, wait with your friend as long as you can... If you must leave before the paramedics arrive, write a note explaining what happened. Leave doors unlocked so the paramedics can enter.
(Recovery Position) 
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