Put the phone on speaker so you can keep helping. The dispatcher can talk you through what to do.
Call 911Do this now
- Call 911. Say the person isn’t breathing or won’t wake up. Put the phone on speaker.
- Give naloxone (Narcan) if you have it — spray it into one nostril.
- Not breathing normally? Start CPR (with rescue breaths if you’re trained). Don’t let naloxone delay CPR.
- Breathing? Roll them onto their side so they don’t choke.
- Give another dose in the other nostril if they don’t respond in 2 to 3 minutes. Keep giving a dose every 2 to 3 minutes until they respond or help arrives, if you have more.
- Stay with them until help arrives. Naloxone can wear off before the drugs do.
- The person is very sleepy, can’t be woken, or won’t respond to shouting or a hard rub on the breastbone
- Breathing is slow, shallow, or has stopped, or they are making choking or gurgling sounds
- Their lips or fingernails are blue, gray, or pale, or their pupils are tiny
- They took any drug, pills, or alcohol and you are worried
About naloxone
Naloxone reverses an overdose from opioids like fentanyl, heroin, and prescription pain pills. It is sold over the counter at many pharmacies and stores, and is often free from community programs. It won’t harm someone who hasn’t taken opioids, so if you’re not sure, give it.
After naloxone, the person may wake up confused, upset, or sick from withdrawal. Stay calm, keep them from taking more drugs, and stay with them. Naloxone can wear off before the opioids do, so the overdose can come back. They should be checked by medical professionals. If they won’t go to the hospital, stay with them for at least 4 hours after the last dose.
Many drugs today are mixed with fentanyl, which is very strong. Naloxone doesn’t reverse overdoses from alcohol, stimulants, or sedatives alone, but it’s still worth giving if opioids might be involved.
Calling 911 when drugs are involved
Many states have “Good Samaritan” laws that may protect people who call 911 for an overdose from some drug charges. The details vary by state. Don’t let fear stop you from calling — calling saves lives.
Get help with substance use
For free, confidential treatment referrals, visit FindTreatment.gov or see Crisis Support.