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Overdoses

An opioid overdose can occur immediately to two full hours after drug use. Even after person has stopped using an opioid, the body continues to process the substance. This may result in extremely high levels within the body, causing significant impairment to the brain and other bodily functions - such as decreased heart rate, ability to breath, and temperature control. Mixing substances also increases the risk of overdose.

It is important for everyone to be aware of overdose signs and to know how to respond in order to best protect ourselves, our friends, family and community in the case of a potential overdose.

WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE OVERDOSES

If you suspect a medical emergency call 9-1-1. Individuals who are unresponsive need medical attention immediately.

Signs of an opioid overdose:

  • Mental confusion, dulled responses

  • Difficulty remaining conscious or inability to wake up

  • Vomiting

  • Seizures

  • Slow or erratic breathing, or no breathing at all

  • Heartbeat is slow, or has stopped

  • Deep snoring or a gurgling sound

  • Face is clammy to touch and has lost color

  • Blue lips and fingertips

  • Extremely low body temperature

WHAT TO DO:

  • Call 9-1-1 immediately

  • If you suspect someone is experiencing an opioid overdose-whether from prescription medication, heroin, or fentanyl-administer Naloxone (Narcan, Evzio). If it is available and you do not know how to use it, let the 9-1-1 operator know you have it available and ask for instructions.

    • Naloxone is a medication used to counter the effects of opioids, allowing the overdose victim to breath normally.

    • Anyone has access to Naloxone through a local pharmacy.  Tell the pharmacist you would like to purchase Narcan through the Virginia Standing Order.

    • Community Services and other community partners provide REVIVE! training which helps individuals recognize the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose and respond appropriately. No-cost Naloxone is distributed at these trainings.

  • Administer CPR if person does not begin breathing on their own.

  • Stay with the person until medical services arrive. Keep them on the ground, either sitting partially upright leaning forward or lay them on their side, to prevent them from falling or choking in the case of them vomiting.

  • In some instances a person will relapse into an overdosed state and will need another dose of Naloxone. If this occurs-administer another dose of the Naloxone and repeat steps above.

Virginia has a “Safe Reporting” law that provides legal protection from certain possession or intoxication offenses if the individual is trying to save a person believed to be having an overdose as long as they call 9-1-1 and cooperate with emergency responders and law enforcement.

After an Opioid Overdose:

Find Treatment

Treatment is available. It works. Recovery is possible.

If you or someone you love needs help overcoming drug dependence, find help today.

 

REVIVE! is the Opioid Overdose and Naloxone Education (OONE) program for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Currently REVIVE! provides training on how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose emergency with the administration of naloxone (Narcan ®). Prince William County Community Services and our community partners offer REVIVE! trainings in the community. Participants in the REVIVE! trainings receive Narcan nasal spray at the completion of the 90-minute training. Information about upcoming trainings can be found on the calendar page or by emailing [email protected] or calling 703-792-7739.