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Learn how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and take quick action to reverse it using naloxone.
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Let's Be Clear:Reverse an Overdose

If you or someone you care about is using opioids, the risk of an overdose is real — whether it's accidental or not. Opioid misuse can happen to anyone, and overdose can occur even when medications are prescribed. That’s why it’s so important to know the signs and be ready to act quickly.

Signs of an Overdose

Knowing the signs of overdose can save a life. Here’s what to look out for:

Slow or No Breathing: One of the most telling signs is extremely slow or stopped breathing.
Unresponsiveness: The person may be unconscious, unresponsive to noise or not react when you rub the middle of their chest with your knuckles.
Blue or Gray Skin: A bluish tint to the lips or fingernails due to lack of oxygen.
Pinpoint Pupils: The person’s pupils may be very small, even in low light.
Gurgling or Choking Sounds: They may make strange noises or appear to be choking.
Limp Body: The person may be unable to support their own weight or move.

In an overdose emergency, dial 911.

If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, it’s important to administer naloxone and get help immediately.

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Naloxone: How It Works

Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, is a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It works quickly by blocking the effects of the substances and restoring normal breathing.

  • Safe and Effective: Anyone can administer naloxone to save a life. naloxone is safe to use, even if the person isn’t experiencing an overdose. Don’t worry, it won’t harm them if it turns out they don’t need it.
  • Easy to Administer: Naloxone comes in a nasal spray (Narcan) or an injectable form. Both are simple to use, even in high-stress situations.
  • You’re Protected When You Use It: The 911 Good Samaritan Law protects people from being charged with possession if administering naloxone or trying to get medical help for someone in distress. Naloxone is not a controlled substance, so you shouldn’t be reluctant to use it in an overdose situation.

Let’s Be Clear:

Naloxone can restore a person’s normal breathing in just 2 to 3 minutes.

How to Use Naloxone

Naloxone is straightforward and easy to use.

  • Assess the situation: If you suspect an overdose, try to wake the person by shouting their name or gently shaking them.
  • Call 911 immediately: Follow dispatch instructions. South Dakota law protects a person who is overdosing and the person who called for help from legal trouble.
  • Administer naloxone: Follow the directions below to properly administer naloxone based on your available medication type.
  • Keep the person alert: Try to keep the person awake and breathing.
  • Properly position the person: Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
  • Monitor the person: Stay with the person until help arrives.
1. Nasal Narcan

 

This nasal spray needs no assembly and can be sprayed up one nostril by pushing the plunger.
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Re-administer a second dose if  no response after 5 minutes. Continue to give doses every 2-3 minutes until the person wakes up
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2. Injectable Naloxone

*Injectable naloxone is recommended primarily for first responder or EMS use but is available at participating pharmacies. 

Remove cap from naloxone vial and uncover the needle.
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Insert needle through rubber plug with vial upside down. Pull back on the plunger and draw up 1ml of naloxone.
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Insert the needle into the muscle of the upper arm or thigh, through clothing if needed, and push on the plunger to inject the naloxone.
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Repeat the injection if no response after 5 minutes.
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Free Naloxone Training 

Anyone could be in the position to assist someone during an opioid overdose, so training is crucial to recognize the symptoms and respond quickly. You might just save a life. Watch the training video below to recognize the signs and learn how:

  • Opioids work and the risk factors involved
  • To recognize and safely address an opioid overdose and provide basic life support care
  • To properly use and store naloxone
  • The law protects you and your rights when administering naloxone

First Responders 

Through the South Dakota naloxone Project, first responders, law enforcement and hospital staff can access free training and education on how to recognize an overdose, safety recommendations and how to reverse an overdose.

Employers & Businesses 

Effective July 1, 2023, House Bill 1162 authorized employers to acquire and make available opioid antagonists. If you are an employer looking to obtain the appropriate training to recognize the symptoms of an overdose and respond quickly, you can access the free training, resources and guidance on how to obtain naloxone.

Let’s Be Clear:

Just like a fire extinguisher or first aid kit, keep naloxone on hand in your home, and be ready to act. It could save a life.
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Always call 911 immediately if you are experiencing a medical emergency and follow the instructions given by 911 dispatchers.

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The information on this website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is presented for general reference and educational purposes to increase overall safety awareness. It is not intended to be medical or other expert advice and should not be used in place of consultation with emergency responders or medical professionals. The information published here is not exhaustive and the user should seek the advice or appropriate professionals. Official State of South Dakota Website © 2024 South Dakota Departments of Health and Social Services. All Rights Reserved.