Narcotic Overdose Treatment

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No matter what type of narcotic drug a person is using, taking too much can result in an overdose. When this happens, the consequences can be severe, including serious medical complications and death.

Because an overdose is a medical emergency, immediate treatment is critical. Prompt care can stabilize the individual, prevent life-threatening complications, and provide an opportunity to begin recovery.  For many people, surviving an overdose becomes a turning point, an urgent reminder of the risks of continued substance use and the importance of getting help to build a healthier, drug-free future.

Type of Treatment

Call 911 or seek hospital care immediately if you witness an overdose.

The type of treatment is based largely on the specific drug that leads to the overdose. Any information regarding the type of drug, when it was taken, and how much was consumed can help when deciding on the proper treatment.

Here are some of the treatments that have been proven effective:

• Stomach pumping can remove unabsorbed drugs from the stomach.
• Activated charcoal may be administered. This reduces the amount of drugs in the bloodstream. From there, the drugs attach to the charcoal and are discharged in the stool.
• Sedating medication is used if a patient is acting violently towards medical staff. This will keep the person subdued until the drug wears off and they realize what is going on.
• Depending on the type of drug that was taken, medication may be administered to reverse the effects and to help prevent additional harm. For example, in an opioid overdose, an antidote such as Narcan can be administered, which immediately kicks the opioid off of the brain’s receptors and takes its place, preventing further damage.

How Good Samaritan Laws Save Addicts from Overdose and Promote Treatment

Many witnesses of overdose don’t call 911 due to the fear of facing legal ramifications for their own drug use or possession.

Immediate Care is a Must

Nobody takes a drug with the thought that they are going to overdose; however, this is more common than many believe.

If you believe that you are experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately and tell someone around you. If you find someone who is overdosing, call 911 immediately, give Narcan if available, do not leave them and try to keep the person awake and breathing. If breathing stops, give rescue breaths and lay them on their side to prevent aspiration.

The most effective way to prevent a narcotic overdose is to avoid misusing these substances altogether. However, if you or someone you know experiences an overdose, immediate medical attention is essential. Prompt treatment with experienced healthcare professionals can save a life, stabilize the individual and reduce the risk of serious complications. The sooner help is received, the better the chances of a full recovery.

If you or someone you love is at risk of narcotic overdose, call  800-934-1582(Sponsored) now to seek needed treatment help. 

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