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If you think someone is overdosing, call 911 immediately. This page explains how to recognize an overdose and what to do while help is on the way.
An overdose occurs when someone takes more of a substance than the body can safely process, causing toxic effects that can be life-threatening. Overdoses can happen with both illegal drugs and prescription medications, and they can happen to people of any age, any background, and any level of experience with substances.
Recognizing an overdose quickly and responding appropriately can save a life. The signs differ somewhat depending on the substance involved, but the following are the most important to know.
Do not wait to see if the person recovers on their own. Call 911 immediately if you suspect an overdose of any kind. Tell the dispatcher what substance you believe was taken if you know. Colorado has a Medical Amnesty Law that provides legal protection to people who call 911 for an overdose in good faith.
Do not leave the person alone while waiting for emergency services. Overdoses can progress rapidly and the situation can change.
Do not wait to see if the person recovers on their own. Call 911 immediately if you suspect an overdose of any kind. Tell the dispatcher what substance you believe was taken if you know. Colorado has a Medical Amnesty Law that provides legal protection to people who call 911 for an overdose in good faith.
If you suspect an opioid overdose and naloxone (Narcan) is available, administer it immediately. Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that reverses opioid overdose by blocking opioid receptors. It is available without a prescription at most pharmacies in Colorado. Administer naloxone as directed and call 911. The person may need more than one dose, particularly if fentanyl is involved.
If the person is breathing, place them in the recovery position: on their side with their mouth facing down, to prevent choking if they vomit. Stay with them and monitor their breathing. If they stop breathing and you are trained in CPR, begin rescue breathing.
Do not leave the person alone while waiting for emergency services. Overdoses can progress rapidly and the situation can change.
Opioid overdose is one of the most common and most deadly forms of overdose, and fentanyl-contaminated drug supplies have made accidental overdose a risk for anyone using street drugs, even those who believe they are using a different substance. The signs of opioid overdose include:
If you see these signs, call 911 immediately. Do not leave the person alone. If naloxone (Narcan) is available, administer it right away.
Alcohol overdose, also called alcohol poisoning, occurs when blood alcohol concentration reaches a level that impairs basic life functions. Signs include:
A common and dangerous myth is that someone who is unconscious from alcohol will sleep it off. This is not true. Blood alcohol levels can continue to rise even after someone stops drinking. Call 911 if you see these signs.
Stimulant overdose, including cocaine and methamphetamine overdose, can cause:
Naloxone is available in nasal spray and injectable forms. In Colorado, it can be obtained without a prescription at most pharmacies. Many harm reduction organizations also distribute naloxone for free. If you or someone you know uses opioids, having naloxone available can be lifesaving.
Naloxone (brand name Narcan) is an opioid antagonist that works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the effects of opioids. When administered to someone experiencing an opioid overdose, it can restore normal breathing within two to five minutes. It has no effect on non-opioid overdoses.
A non-fatal overdose is a serious medical event and a critical moment for intervention. Research consistently shows that the period immediately following an overdose represents a window of increased openness to treatment. Denver Recovery works with individuals and families who are ready to take the next step after an overdose event.
Denver Recovery serves individuals and families in Denver, Lakewood, Aurora, Golden, Jefferson County, and across the greater Colorado region.
If you or someone you love has survived an overdose and is ready to explore treatment options in Denver or Lakewood, Colorado, our team is here to help. Treatment is available, recovery is possible, and we are ready to help you find the right path forward.
Clear answers to common questions about treatment, support, and what to expect next.
Signs of an opioid overdose include unresponsiveness, very slow or stopped breathing, blue or pale lips and skin, pinpoint pupils, and limpness. Signs of alcohol overdose include unconsciousness that cannot be interrupted, slow or irregular breathing, vomiting while unconscious, and seizures. Signs of stimulant overdose include chest pain, racing or irregular heartbeat, seizures, and stroke symptoms. When in doubt, call 911.
Call 911 immediately. If you suspect an opioid overdose and naloxone is available, administer it. Place the person in the recovery position if they are breathing. Stay with them and do not leave them alone. Tell the 911 dispatcher what you know about the substance involved. Colorado’s Medical Amnesty Law protects people who call 911 for an overdose in good faith.
Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that binds to the same receptors in the brain that opioids bind to, rapidly displacing the opioid and reversing its effects. In the context of an overdose, it restores normal breathing within minutes. Naloxone only works on opioid overdoses and has no effect on overdoses involving alcohol, stimulants, or other non-opioid substances. It is available without a prescription at most Colorado pharmacies.
Call 911 immediately any time you suspect an overdose. Do not wait to see if the person recovers. Do not try to manage the situation on your own. In Colorado, you are protected by the Medical Amnesty Law when calling for help in an overdose situation. The moments immediately after recognizing an overdose are critical. Fast action saves lives.
If someone you care about has experienced an overdose, or if you are concerned about your own or someone else’s substance use, Denver Recovery is here to help. Reach out today for a confidential conversation about treatment options in Denver and Lakewood, Colorado.
Confidential support is available day or night. We can discuss your situation, confirm availability, and explain the next step.
