The United States is facing an unprecedented drug crisis. In fact, we are currently experiencing the worst drug crisis in human history.

In 2023 alone, an estimated 107,543 people died from a drug-related overdose (CDC, 2024.) While these numbers are staggering, this number reflects a 3% decrease in deaths due to overdose compared to 2022.

This serves as a promising figure in the fight against overdose deaths, but it’s clear that we still have a way to go in terms of eliminating the issue. Experts and advocates in substance-use recovery have been making great strides in harm reduction strategies to curtail drug-related overdoses, but what can the average person do to help?

Noticing the Signs

Recognizing the signs of an overdose is vital to saving a life, but the symptoms can vary based on the substance, or substances, at hand. If you are ever in a situation where a friend or loved one may be experiencing an overdose, look out for these signs as reported by the American Addiction Centers (2024).

• Potential Signs of Alcohol Overdose
  • Marked mental confusion or stupor.
  • Difficulty remaining conscious (or being completely unconscious).
  • Lack of responsiveness or being unable to be roused or woken up by others.
  • Seizures.
  • Vomiting (particularly dangerous given the potential for diminished gag reflex).
  • Slowed or irregular breathing.
  • Heart rate that slows or stops.
  • Very low body temperature.
  • Pale or blue-tinged, clammy skin.
• Potential Signs of Opioid Overdose
  • Loss of consciousness.
  • Markedly constricted or pinpoint pupils.
  • Breathing difficulties (slowed, labored, and/or irregular breathing).
  • Respiratory arrest (completely stopped breathing).
  • Choking, gurgling, or snoring sounds.
  • Blue or purple lips or fingertips.
  • Being unresponsive to loud noises, shaking, or painful stimuli.
• Potential Signs of Benzodiazepine Overdose
  • Profoundly impaired mental status.
  • Marked confusion.
  • Slurred speech.
  • Slowed, labored breathing or respiratory arrest.
  • Coma.
• Potential Signs of a Stimulant Overdose Include:
  • Dangerously increased body temperature.
  • Hyperventilation or rapid breathing.
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
  • Very high blood pressure.
  • Devastating cardiovascular events (e.g., stroke, heart attack, circulatory compromise).
  • Panic.
  • Hallucinations.
  • Paranoia and other features of psychosis.
  • Aggressive behavior.
  • Seizures and convulsions.

What You Can Do to Save a Life

Watching an overdose happen in real life can be scary, but the actions you take in the following moments are, quite literally, a matter of life and death. If you’re ever in such a situation, try to stay calm and keep the following things in mind.

• First things first, dial 911.
  • Try to remain as clear and calm as possible while explaining the situation to the operator. Listen to their instructions and follow what they tell you to do. You may have to perform CPR. If you are not already trained, the operator will walk you through the process.
  • Never be afraid to call for help. Good Samaritan Laws exist in 47 U.S. states excluding Kansas, Texas, and Wyoming. These laws are put in place to protect you from legal consequences related to drug possession if someone is overdosing and you must call for medical help.  
• In the case of an overdose related to Fentanyl or opioids, administer naloxone (Narcan).
  • Naloxone (brand name “Narcan”) is free, and it’s at your pharmacy. This life-saving drug can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose until help arrives. Don’t hesitate. Visit this page to learn more about how to get Narcan in Davenport Iowa and the greater Quad-Cities area.
• Stay with the person until medical attention is available.
  • As aforementioned, Good Samaritan Laws keep you safe from litigation related to drug charges if you have called 911 for help. Monitor the situation until help arrives.
• Spread the word.
  • August 31st is International Overdose Awareness Day, which serves as a perfect time to inform friends and family about the warning signs of overdose and to explain the importance of carrying naloxone. Every second counts. Let’s work together to save lives.

The Center for Alcohol & Drug Services Inc. (CADS) is dedicated to the prevention, education, and treatment of substance use and other disorders related to drugs and alcohol. If you or a loved one may be struggling, take our online assessment or contact CADS to learn more about our services.

Read more from CADS:

1. How the Quad Cities Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition is Making a Difference in Our Community

2. The Warning Signs of Problem Gambling and How to Spread Awareness

3. How the Stigma Surrounding Drug Use Hinders Treatment