Opioid Awareness & Prevention

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Reverse Opioid Overdose with Narcan (Naloxone)

If someone takes more opioids than their body can handle, they can pass out, stop breathing, and die. Overdose can take seconds to hours. Anyone who uses opioids can overdose. Anyone at risk for having or witnessing an overdose can carry and use naloxone, the medication to reverse opioid overdose. In Washington State, If you get medical help for an overdose or alcohol poisoning, Good Samaritan laws are in place so you and the victim cannot be charged for drug use, possession, or underage drinking.

Overdose Awareness

Recognizing an Overdose

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Recognizing the signs of opioid overdose can save a life. Here are some things to look for:

  • Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”
  • Falling asleep or losing consciousness
  • Slow, weak, or no breathing
  • Choking or gurgling sounds
  • Limp body
  • Cold and/or clammy skin
  • Discolored skin (especially in lips and nails)

Steps for an Overdose

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It may be hard to tell whether a person is high or experiencing an overdose. If you aren’t sure, treat it like an overdose—you could save a life.

  1.  Call 911 Immediately.
  2.  Administer naloxone, if available.
  3.  Try to keep the person awake and breathing.
  4.  Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
  5.  Stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives.