Updated on August 15, 2023
What is an opioid?
Opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others.
Source : https://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/opioids
How does an overdose look like?
Overdose can result in shallow breathing, confusion, lessened alertness and loss of consciousness. Pupils will be constricted (pin-point/small). Respiratory depression might cause an arrest. Combination with alcohol or sleeping pills can be a hazardous combo.
Look for needle tracks in addicted patients.
Ask accompanying people if the victim was on opioids.
Observe the surroundings for empty vials and syringes
What to do if overdose is suspected?
Apart from the usual BLS sequence and supporting rescue breaths, consider an antidote.
The antidote is NALOXONE – given as soon as an overdose is suspected.
The usual dose by EMS is between 0.4 and 2 mg in the adult and 0.1 mg/kg in the child or infant. Assisted bag-valve-mask breathing can be provided until the patient is ventilating adequately.
The onset of effect is seen typically in 1-2 minutes; maximal effect in ~5-10 minutes. A repeat dose is indicated for partial response and can be repeated as often as needed.
If an IV line cannot be placed, administer 2 mg of IM or intranasal naloxone.