When an overdose occurs, you make the difference

In 2021, 397 people lost their lives to drug-related overdose in Saint Louis County. In the years since then, community members have been responding to overdoses, and that number fell to 217 in 2024.

This’s why it’s so important for all of us to take care of others in our community. Every one of us has the power to make a difference and save lives; you don’t have to be a doctor or social worker or have any formal training. All you need is a little information so you’re prepared to respond when it counts.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of an Overdose?

There are a number of indicators that can help you spot an overdose as it’s happening. Here’s what to look for.

Pinpoint Pupils

Opioids often make a person’s pupils constrict or become smaller.

Limp Body

During an overdose, the person will often slump over, stop moving, or lose consciousness altogether. If they are unable to hold their head up, grip your hand, or respond to your voice or touch, that’s a strong signal they may be having an overdose.

Slow, Weak, or No Breathing

Opioid overdose typically involves trouble breathing or not breathing at all. A person’s brain can only go a few minutes without oxygen, so it’s important to help them quickly.

Choking, Gurgling, or Vomiting

Opioids can suppress a person’s gag reflex, affecting their ability to swallow or spit. This can lead to choking, vomiting, or even what sounds like snoring, and is a sure sign the person needs medical attention fast.

Discoloration of Lips and/or Fingernails

An opioid overdose can damage the veins in the body, making the lips and the skin around the fingernails look blue or purple.

What Should You Do if You Spot an Overdose?

If you witness an overdose, take action immediately. Every second counts, and your decisions in the moment can make all the difference.

Step 1: Call 9-1-1

Act quickly, but calmly. The first thing a 9-1-1 dispatcher will ask you is the address of the emergency. Provide details about your location, the number you’re calling from, and what type of emergency it is. The dispatcher will continue to ask you questions, but this initial information is crucial for them to get the right people out to you as soon as possible.

And don’t worry about getting in trouble with the law. Missouri is a Good Samaritan state, meaning you will not be punished for helping someone get medical attention in the event of an overdose — even if you have an illicit substance in your possession.

Step 2: Use Naloxone

If available, administer naloxone (brand name Narcan) to the person overdosing. It’s a nasal spray medication that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. Naloxone is safe to use even if they are not experiencing an overdose. Free naloxone kits are available through the St. Louis City and County Health Departments. Keeping this life-saving medication on you at all times makes sure you’re ready when the moment comes.

Step 3: Stay Until Help Arrives

Stay with the person until medical help arrives.

Try to keep the person awake and breathing. When you are on the phone with 9-1-1, the operator can give you instructions to administer rescue breaths if needed.

Lay the person on their side with their top leg bent. This is the recovery position and helps to prevent choking.

Once medical help arrives, they’ll be able to take over, but they may have questions you can answer to give them the best chance at saving the person.

You Can Make the Difference

Our community is stronger when we keep an eye out for each other and are prepared to help in an emergency. When it comes to drug overdoses in our community, we all have a part to play.  Learn more about overdose prevention, including where to get and how to use naloxone at ThinkHealthSTL.org.

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