ProTrainings - Opioid Overdose

OPIOID OVERDOSE

Opiates and opioids are Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants that can slow down breathing, eventually causing it to stop.

Anyone taking opiates can suffer opiates or opioids overdose, especially when a person takes more than was prescribed by the doctor, combines opiates or opioids with another CNS depressant or has an unknown condition that makes them more sensitive to overdose.

Common opiates and opioids

  • heroin
  • morphine
  • codeine
  • methadone
  • hydrocodone known as vicodin or lortab
  • oxycodone otherwise known as percocet

Common drugs that may cause similar signs, but are not opioids or opiates: (Naloxone has no effect on these drugs)

  • cocaine
  • LSD
  • ecstasy
  • tranquilizers
  • marijuana

Common opioid overdose signs:

  • bottles of drugs or drug paraphernalia nearby the patient

  • very slow respiration date nearby the patient

  • pinpoint pupils

  • for a patient with suspected opioid overdose, appropriately trained lay rescuers or healthcare providers should administer intramuscular or instranasal naloxone, if available

  • naloxone dosage of 2 mg is recommended for rapid reversal when respiratory compromise is present. Naloxone typically takes 3-5 minutes for full effect

  • for patients suspected to be in cardiac arrest, standard resuscitative measures should take priority over naloxone administration, with focus on high quality CPR

  • if there is no change in 3-5 minutes after the first dose of naloxone, one can administer another dose and continue CPR.