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  • How To Use Naloxone

    How To Use Naloxone

    Learn how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose

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Opioid Overdose Awareness

Common opioids include heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, codeine, morphine, methadone and hydromorphone. Opioids are a type of depressant that can slow the body down and make people sleepy. They may be prescribed or used illegally to reduce pain, manage opioid dependence or produce a state of euphoria/relaxation.

Know the Risks

Overdose Risk is Increased When:

  • Tolerance is lowered: after a period of non-use, or if you are using substances for the first time
  • You have been sick, tired, run down, dehydrated or have liver issues
  • You mix substances, including alcohol or prescription drugs
  • The substance is stronger than you are used to

For more information about reducing risk, see our Safer Drug Use Tips

Know the Signs

Not Responding

Not Responding

Doesn't move and can't be woken.

Slow or Not Breathing

Slow or Not Breathing

A breath every 5 seconds is normal.

Making Sounds

Making Sounds

Choking, gurgling sounds or snoring

Blue Lips & Nails

Blue Lips & Nails

Cold or Clammy Skin

Cold or Clammy Skin

Tiny Pupils

Tiny Pupils

Call 9-1-1

If you see these signs and think somebody is overdosing, it's important to call for help.

Know the Response: SAVE ME Steps

S - stimulate

S - stimulate

Unresponsive? Call 9-1-1

A - airway

A - airway

Check and open

V - ventilate

V - ventilate

1 breath every 5 seconds

E - evaluate

E - evaluate

Breathing?

M - medication

M - medication

Inject 1 mL of naloxone into a muscle. Keep giving breaths.

E - evaluate & support

E - evaluate & support

Another dose?

Opioid Overdose Emergency in BC

This 2 page infograph has details on the crisis, who's at risk and what's been done at it.

Opioid Overdose Emergency in BC