Drug abuse first aid

Drug overdose symptoms vary widely depending on the specific drug(s) used, but may include:

• Abnormal pupil size
  • Dilated pupils (enlarged)
  • Pinpoint pupils (very small)
  • Nonreactive pupils (pupils do not change size when exposed to light)
• Sweating
• Agitation
• Tremors
• Convulsions
• Staggering or unsteady gait (ataxia)
• Difficulty breathing
  • Shallow, decreased breathing (respiratory depression)
  • Labored breathing
  • Rapid breathing (tachypnea)
• Drowsiness
• Unconsciousness (coma)
• Hallucinations
• Delusional or paranoid behavior
• Violent or aggressive behavior
• Death

Drug withdrawal symptoms also vary widely depending on the specific drug(s) used, but may include:

• Abdominal cramping
• Agitation
• Cold sweat
• Convulsions
• Delusions
• Depression
• Diarrhea
• Hallucinations
• Nausea and vomiting
• Restlessness
• Shaking
• Death

Email this page  Printer friendly  Bookmark this page