by Paulin Soleyman

Created on: July 07, 2009

An overdose occurs when an individual intentionally or unintentionally consumes more than the recommended dosage of a given drug. Even though the term overdose conjures up images of inner-city crack houses filled with heroin, cocaine or methamphetamine users the majority of overdoses today are due to the misuse or mixture of more commonly available drugs such as alcohol, over-the-counter drugs, prescription drugs and certain herbal remedies. Likewise, contrary to popular belief, persons most at risk of suffering an overdose are no longer minorities in their late teens or early twenties, who abuse illegal street drugs, but white, middle-class individuals in their late thirties or early forties. Recent evidence suggests that this new trend is a result of the increasing use of prescription drugs, especially opioid painkillers among affluent, middle-aged, working men and women. Today, drug overdoses have evolved from a mainly inner-city problem to a crisis faced by everyday individuals. Therefore, it is imperative that we not only recognize the signs and symptoms of an overdose within ourselves and our loved ones but also know how to apply initial first aid in the time it takes for medical help to arrive.

Even though symptoms of an overdose vary widely depending on the type and dosage of drug taken some general symptoms of an overdose include but are not limited to:

Nausea

Vomiting

Sweating

Tremors

Convulsions

Delusional or paranoid behavior

Dizziness

Drowsiness

Breathing problems

Coma

Since most drugs alter a patient's state of mind in the case of an overdose knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.

Never jeopardize your own safety. If the patient is violent, delusional, bleeding or otherwise seems dangerous to you trust your instincts and do not initiate contact. Call for professional assistance.

Once you are certain that providing the patient with first aid will not put you in danger begin by calling 911. In the time it takes for medical help to arrive check the patient's airway to make sure it is clear. Begin CPR if necessary. If the patient is conscious and able to speak find out what drugs he has taken. Collect all drug containers and present them to the paramedics upon arrival.

Encountering a drug overdose is a stressful and traumatic experience. However, your ability to remain calm and rational during this difficult time can be the difference between life and death for the patient. Make every effort to educate yourselves. Ask your doctor to explain, in layman's terms, all possible side effects of the drugs you and your loved ones are prescribed or otherwise use. Be especially aware of all drug interaction dangers. Lastly, if you are the caregiver of a small child, an elderly individual or any other person known to take a variety of prescription or non-prescription drugs have all emergency phone numbers including your doctor's phone number and the National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) readily available.

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