Diseases
opioid overdose
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Opioids affect the part of the brain that regulates breathing. When people take high doses of opioids, it can lead to an overdose, with the slowing or stopping of breathing and sometimes death.
Symptoms
- the body goes limp
- the face is extremely pale and/or feels clammy to the touch
- fingernails or lips have a purple or blue color
- vomiting or making gurgling noises
- breathing or heartbeat slows or stops
Causes
- take an opioid to get high
- take an extra dose of a prescription opioid or take it too often (either accidentally or on purpose)
- mix an opioid with other medicines, illegal drugs, or alcohol.
Risk factors
- take illegal opioids
- take more opioid medicine than you are prescribed
- combine opioids with other medicines and/or alcohol
Diagnosis
- physical exam.
- lab tests
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is opioid overdose?
Opioids affect the part of the brain that regulates breathing. When people take high doses of opioids, it can lead to an overdose, with the slowing or stopping of breathing and sometimes death.
What are the symptoms of opioid overdose?
the body goes limp, the face is extremely pale and/or feels clammy to the touch, fingernails or lips have a purple or blue color, vomiting or making gurgling noises, breathing or heartbeat slows or stops
What causes opioid overdose?
take an opioid to get high; take an extra dose of a prescription opioid or take it too often (either accidentally or on purpose); mix an opioid with other medicines, illegal drugs, or alcohol.
Which medicines are used for opioid overdose?
nalmefene, naloxone, naltrexone
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.