OVERDOSE
Overdose occurs when the body has more drugs than it can deal with. Meth overdose can lead to death. Fatal meth related overdoses are on a sharp increase in both Canada and the US.
Symptoms of meth overdose include:
If you suspect you or someone else is having an overdose:
Be especially careful if you are combining meth with opiates like down/fentanyl/heroin! The signs of opiate overdose are different than with stimulants. Learn to identify the signs, make sure to have a naloxone kit on hand, and know how to use it.
Overdose occurs when the body has more drugs than it can deal with. Meth overdose can lead to death. Fatal meth related overdoses are on a sharp increase in both Canada and the US.
Symptoms of meth overdose include:
- Red face
- Racing or irregular heartbeat
- Profuse sweating
- Rapid breathing and/or eye movement
- Extreme paranoia, anxiety, or aggression
- Hallucinations
- Fever
- Body shakes/trembling
- Stroke or heart attack
If you suspect you or someone else is having an overdose:
- Call 911 right away
- Stay calm, don’t argue or try to restrain the person-this can lead to aggressive behaviour.
- Be re-assuring-let the person know help is coming and everything will be okay.
- Try to create a mellow environment-turn off loud music and bright lights.
- If they are receptive, a cool cloth to the neck, forehead, or wrists can decrease fever and sooth the person.
- Remain with the person until paramedics arrive.
- If the person has stopped breathing or there is no pulse, get someone with training to perform CPR.
Be especially careful if you are combining meth with opiates like down/fentanyl/heroin! The signs of opiate overdose are different than with stimulants. Learn to identify the signs, make sure to have a naloxone kit on hand, and know how to use it.