Signs of Opioid Overdose

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As the most effective treatment for conditions involving pain, prescription-based opioids have become a commonplace treatment within the medical field. In addition to their fast, pain-relieving effects, these opioids also produce certain pleasant side effects, such as calmness and euphoria. Because of these effects, many individuals who take these opioids wind up becoming addicted and are at risk of overdosing. It’s important to understand the signs of opioid overdose so you can act quickly if you notice them in someone you know.

Opioid drugs, such as heroin, OxyContin, and Demerol, all produce certain psychoactive effects that influence how brain chemical processes work. When abused on a regular basis, these effects impair brain and central nervous system functions. After a certain point, signs of opioid overdose start to develop as major bodily systems break down.

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Opioid Primary Effects

Opioids work by slowing down the brain and central nervous system (CNS) functions. Opioids act on individual brain cells, increasing the production of important neurotransmitter chemicals that affect mood and sensation, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.

Each of these chemicals plays an essential role in helping to regulate CNS functions. As opioids flood the CNS, they also affect:

• Body temperature regulation
• Respiratory system
• Heart function
• Circulatory system
• Cognition
• Emotions
• Movement and coordination

Consequently, signs of opioid overdose can develop within any one or more of these systems.

Signs of Opioid Overdose

Loss of consciousness is a common sign of opioid overdose.

Incoherent Speech

Speech functions are regulated within the brain itself. Too large a dose of opioids can cause noticeable problems in this area.

Incoherent speech may take the form of:

• Babbling words or phrases
• Nonsensical sentences
• Repeating words and phrases

Excess Sweating/Chills

Continued opioid use causes brain chemical imbalances to form, which gradually offset the brain’s ability to regulate the body’s systems. When too large a dose is ingested, problems with body temperature regulation occur. This can lead to profuse sweating and chills, sometimes alternating back and forth.

Disorganized Thought Patterns

Like speech functions, the brain also regulates thinking or cognitive processes. Not surprisingly, a large dose of opioids will interfere with a person’s logic and reasoning abilities.

Signs of disorganized thinking may take the form of:

• Delusions
• Paranoia
• Inability to understand when spoken to

Loss of Consciousness

In large enough doses, the slowing effects of opioids bring on a state of heavy sedation. After a certain point, this sign of opioid overdose causes a person to lose consciousness altogether.

In the case of long-term opioid use, users may actually experience brief lapses in consciousness, also known as “nodding out.” These episodes also carry a high potential for overdose.

Respiratory Distress

Respiratory failure is the most commonly experienced sign of opioid overdose. Opioids essentially numb the body’s respiratory functions, leaving a person unable to breathe. Shortness of breath and labored breathing may also be indicators of overdose.

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5 Ways to Get Naloxone and Prevent an Opioid Overdose

If you think yourself or a loved one is at risk for an opioid overdose, learn the ways you can access naloxone.

Risk Factors

People who have co-occurring medical and/or psychological problems are at especially high risk of developing signs of opioid overdose. High-risk co-occurring conditions include:

• Diabetes
• Depression
• Heart disease
• Anxiety disorders

Since opioids have a cumulative effect on brain and body functions, the longer a person uses these drugs, the higher the risk of overdose.

Find Help for Opioid Addiction Today

You don’t have to wait until the signs of opioid overdose appear to begin taking action. If you suspect that someone is misusing these substances, seek help immediately. Both inpatient and outpatient treatment centers can help your loved one overcome substance use disorder and reclaim their quality of life. Contact us to get connected to local treatment resources, and check out our online directory for a list of local Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings in your area.

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