International Overdose Awareness Day
International Overdose Awareness Day
August 31 is recognized as International Overdose Awareness Day the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember those we have lost to an overdose, acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind, and renew our commitment to end overdose and related harms.
The campaign raises awareness of overdose, which is one of the world’s worst public health crises and stimulates action and discussion about evidence-based overdose prevention and drug policy.
The campaign raises awareness of overdose, which is one of the world’s worst public health crises and stimulates action and discussion about evidence-based overdose prevention and drug policy.
Common signs and symptoms of a drug overdose can include:
- Dilated pupils, Nausea or vomiting, Headache, Chest pain.
- Seizures, Convulsions or tremors, blue lips or fingers, abnormally high body temperature.
- Severe difficulty breathing, shallow breathing, or complete cessation of breath.
- Gurgling sounds that indicate the person’s airway is blocked.
- Violent or aggressive behavior, Paranoia, Agitation.
- Disorientation or confusion, Unresponsiveness, Unconsciousness.
- Death.
Depressants and Opioids
A depressant is a drug that slows the vital activities of the body including breathing and the heart rate.
Barbiturates Drug Factsheet
Benzodiazepines Drug Factsheet
Opioids, slow the central nervous system to produce a calming effect.
Fentanyl Drug Factsheet
Heroin Drug Factsheet
When taken in access amounts or in combination, they can depress normal functions such as breathing and heart rate until breathing and the heart rate eventually stop.
Stimulants
Amphetamine overdose increases the risk of a heart attack, stroke, seizure or drug induced psychotic episodes.
Amphetamines Drug Factsheet
Cocaine Drug Factsheet