Prescription drug overdose is a growing public health concern, with millions of people worldwide suffering from the consequences of overusing or misusing prescription drugs. These medications are intended to help manage pain, treat illnesses, and improve overall health. However, when taken in excessive amounts or without proper medical supervision, they can be highly addictive and even deadly.
It is important to recognize warning signs and get help for prescription drug abuse as soon as possible. Call 888.351.3834 or contact Northpoint Nebraska online to learn more about prescription drug treatment.
5 Signs of a Prescription Drug Overdose
When it comes to prescription medications, proper dosage and adherence to your physician’s instructions are critical. However, there may be instances, intentionally or accidentally, where an overdose occurs. It is critical to identify the signs early on and act as quickly as possible.
Five key warning signs of a prescription drug overdose include:
- The person is unresponsive or semi-conscious – The first and most alarming sign is a person who is unusually unresponsive or appears semi-conscious. This may manifest as an individual who is unable to be roused or communicate clearly.
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath – Sudden respiratory issues can also indicate an overdose. If the person is experiencing shallow, labored breathing or even stopping breathing intermittently, this is a dire sign requiring immediate attention.
- Seizures or tremors – Uncontrolled movements such as seizures or persistent tremors are strong indicators of severe distress. These can range from full-body convulsions to slight tremors in the limbs.
- Confusion or altered mental state – Overdoses often result in instances of changes in cognitive function. An affected person might display disorientation, severe confusion, or an inability to understand their surroundings.
- Skin changes – Physical changes such as blue-tinged or pale skin, particularly around the lips or extremities, can signal a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream and require immediate intervention.
Understanding the gravity of these signs is crucial, but so is knowing what to do next. Quick and decisive actions can effectively save a life.
What to Do in the Event of a Prescription Drug Overdose
Step 1: Assess and Confirm the Symptoms
Upon recognizing the potential signs of a prescription drug overdose, immediately assess the person’s condition. Confirm the presence of the noted symptoms and check for any relevant medication that might have been consumed.
Step 2: Call for Medical Assistance
Without delay, call for emergency medical aid. Provide the dispatcher with the necessary information, including the victim’s age, weight, and type of drug (if known). Follow their instructions while help is on the way.
Step 3: Provide Supportive Care
Do not leave the individual alone. Ensure an open airway and monitor the individual until emergency services arrive. If the person is not breathing or their heartbeat is absent, CPR should be administered by someone properly trained.
Step 4: Prevent Further Harm
If the person is conscious, attempt to keep them calm and have them sit up if they are breathing comfortably. Refrain from giving them anything to eat or drink until medical professionals have assessed the situation.
Step 5: Help the Medics
Once on-site, inform the responding medical team of any other drugs taken by the individual and any specific details you’ve observed since the overdose.
Call Now to Start Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment at Northpoint Nebraska
Addiction can be a complicated and overwhelming experience, but help is available to guide you through every step. If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug abuse, don’t wait for the signs of overdose to become a reality. Reach out to Northpoint Nebraska and start your path to healing today. Call 888.351.3834 or connect with us online.