Substance guides

What to do if someone overdoses: Emergency response guide

Published October 1, 2025 · 7 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.

Knowing how to respond to an overdose can save a life. These steps apply to opioid, alcohol, and stimulant overdoses.

Recognize the signs

Opioid overdose: unresponsive, slow or stopped breathing, blue lips, pinpoint pupils. Alcohol overdose: unresponsive, vomiting, slow breathing, cold skin. Stimulant overdose: chest pain, seizures, extreme agitation, high body temperature.

Step 1: Call 911

Always call 911 first. Good Samaritan laws protect you from prosecution for drug possession in most states when reporting an overdose.

Step 2: Administer naloxone (if opioid suspected)

Nasal spray (Narcan): insert into one nostril, press plunger. Repeat in 2-3 minutes if no response. Naloxone only works on opioid overdoses and is safe to give even if opioids are not involved.

Step 3: Position and monitor

Place on their side (recovery position) to prevent choking on vomit. Begin rescue breathing if breathing has stopped. Stay with them until emergency services arrive.

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: NIDA · SAMHSA · CDC

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if someone is overdosing?

Unresponsiveness combined with slow/stopped breathing and blue lips (opioids) or seizures and extreme agitation (stimulants). When in doubt, call 911.

Will I get in trouble for calling 911 for an overdose?

Most states have Good Samaritan laws protecting you from prosecution when reporting an overdose. Call 911, the legal protection exists.

Does naloxone always work?

Naloxone only reverses opioid overdoses. It does not work for alcohol, stimulant, or benzodiazepine overdoses. It is safe to give even when unsure.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.