If in doubt, call for help
You will not get in trouble for calling emergency services. Tell paramedics what was taken — this helps them treat the person faster and more effectively.
Emergency numbers: 112 (EU), 999 (UK), 911 (US)
Depressant overdose (opioids, GHB, benzos)
Signs:
•Very slow or stopped breathing
•Blue or grey lips and fingernails
•Unresponsive — won't wake up when shaken or called
•Gurgling or snoring sounds (airway obstruction)
•Pinpoint pupils (opioids specifically)
What to do:
.Call emergency services immediately.
.Place them on their side (recovery position) to prevent choking.
.If you have naloxone (Narcan) and suspect opioids, administer it now.
.Monitor breathing — if it stops, begin rescue breathing or CPR.
.Stay with them until help arrives.
Stimulant overdose (meth, cocaine, MDMA)
Signs:
•Chest pain or difficulty breathing
•Very fast or irregular heartbeat
•Overheating (hot, dry skin, very high temperature)
•Seizures or convulsions
•Extreme agitation, paranoia, or confusion
•Loss of consciousness
What to do:
.Call emergency services.
.Keep them cool — move to a cool area, apply cool (not ice-cold) water to neck, armpits, groin.
.If overheating from MDMA: do not give excessive water — sip slowly, maximum 500ml per hour.
.If having a seizure: do not restrain them. Clear the area of objects. Protect their head.
.Stay calm and stay with them.
GHB/GBL overdose
GHB overdose is a medical emergency. The margin between a recreational dose and an overdose is very small.
Signs:
•Sudden loss of consciousness (cannot be woken)
•Vomiting while unconscious (choking risk)
•Very slow breathing
•Seizure-like movements
•Confusion followed by collapse
What to do:
.Call emergency services immediately.
.Recovery position — this is critical. People who overdose on GHB frequently vomit. Lying on their back can be fatal.
.Monitor breathing continuously.
.Never leave someone alone who has passed out on GHB.
.Do NOT try to give them water or make them vomit.
Naloxone
Naloxone (brand name: Narcan) reverses opioid overdoses. It has no effect on non-opioid substances but is harmless to administer if you're unsure.
•Available without prescription in many countries.
•Nasal spray is the easiest form to use.
•Effects last 30-90 minutes — the opioid may outlast naloxone, so medical help is still needed.
•After administering, place in recovery position and call for help.
Recovery position
.Kneel beside the person.
.Place their nearest arm at a right angle to their body.
.Place their far hand against their near cheek.
.Pull the far knee up and roll them toward you.
.Tilt their head back to keep the airway open.
.Monitor breathing until help arrives.
Remember
•You won't get in trouble for helping someone.
•Telling paramedics what was taken saves lives.
•If you're unsure whether it's an overdose, call anyway. It's always better to be safe.