Rates of heroin overdose deaths have more than quadrupled in the United States within a decade, according to CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

This guide explores how heroin overdose can occur and treatment methods used to counteract what should be treated as a medical emergency. You can also find out how to connect with effective and compassionate heroin addiction treatment.

Signs of Heroin Overdose

Heroin, classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, is responsible for about one-third of all opioid-related overdoses.

If you suspect that a heroin overdose is occurring, act swiftly by calling 911 for immediate assistance.

Early signs of a heroin overdose include:

• Unusual sleepiness or unresponsiveness: Individuals may appear extremely drowsy or unable to wake up. This is often one of the first signs of overdose.
• Disorientation or confusion: The person may seem lost, confused, or unable to comprehend basic questions or commands.
• Pinpoint pupils: One of the hallmark signs of opioid overdose, including heroin, is constricted, pinpoint pupils.
• Slowed or irregular breathing: Noticeable changes in breathing patterns can be an early warning.
• Weak pulse: A slow, weak, or irregular pulse can indicate that the overdose is affecting the heart’s ability to function properly.
• Pale skin: The skin may look pale or feel cold and clammy to the touch, signaling circulatory problems.
• Subdued movements: Movements may be sluggish or weak, indicating the body’s systems are slowing down.

Recognizing these early signs provides a crucial opportunity to seek immediate medical attention, potentially averting more severe symptoms and saving a life.

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Heroin Overdose Symptoms

Consuming an excessive amount of heroin can critically impair breathing and heart functions, potentially leading to cessation of both within minutes of ingestion.

Symptoms of heroin overdose typically include:

• Slow and shallow breathing
• Bluish tint to lips and fingernails
• Cold, clammy skin
• Seizures

These symptoms can escalate quickly, resulting in coma or even death. Those who use heroin face a higher risk of encountering these severe symptoms than people who use other opioids (except fentanyl, a deadly synthetic opioid 50 times stronger than heroin).

Overdoses involving drugs can lead to fatal outcomes. If you believe someone is undergoing an overdose, call 911 without hesitation. In situations where a phone is not available, Web Poison Control Services offers online support for emergency guidance right here.

Heroin Overdose Treatment

Treating a heroin overdose involves a series of interventions aimed at preserving life and preventing long-term damage. The approach to treatment is multi-pronged, focusing on immediate stabilization, counteracting the effects of heroin, and addressing complications from the overdose.

• Immediate stabilization: The first step is to ensure the person’s airway is clear and that they are receiving sufficient oxygen.
• Administration of naloxone: Naloxone rapidly reverses the effects of heroin on the brain, restoring normal respiration.
• Supportive care: Ongoing supportive care is necessary to monitor vital signs, manage withdrawal symptoms, and treat medical issues.
• Observation and monitoring: Patients are kept under observation to monitor recurrence of overdose symptoms.
• Addressing withdrawal symptoms: Medical staff may provide medications to ease symptoms like agitation and anxiety.
• Long-term treatment planning: Professionals may discuss long-term treatment options, including detox and medication-assisted treatment.
• Emotional and psychological support: Access to mental health support helps address the emotional impact of overdose.

Heroin overdose treatment involves comprehensive care and planning for the future. Effective treatment requires a coordinated effort from emergency medical providers, addiction specialists, and mental health professionals.

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FAQs

What Does a Heroin Overdose Look Like?

A heroin overdose typically presents as shallow, slow, or stopped breathing, blue lips and fingernails, pinpoint pupils, convulsions, and unconsciousness. It may also involve disorientation, delirium, and an inability to wake up or respond to stimuli.

Can You Overdose on Heroin?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on heroin, as it’s a powerful opiate that depresses the central nervous system and respiratory function. The risk increases with higher doses or when combined with other substances.

What Happens When You Overdose on Heroin?

During a heroin overdose, breathing can slow down dramatically or stop altogether, leading to hypoxia – reduced oxygen supply to the brain – which can cause short-term and long-term neurological damage or death. Immediate medical treatment is essential.

Get Treatment for Heroin Overdose at Gratitude Lodge

If you or someone you care about requires compassionate and evidence-based heroin addiction treatment in Southern California, reach out to Gratitude Lodge.

We can treat heroin overdose, and we can also help you withdraw from opioids through our medical detox program. Access FDA-approved medications and continuous care as you transition to ongoing inpatient treatment at one of our luxury facilities.

All Gratitude Lodge heroin addiction treatment programs deliver personalized treatments that may include:

• MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
• Talk therapies
• Motivational therapies
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Individual counseling
• Holistic intervention
• Aftercare planning

Although heroin addiction is highly disruptive, it’s also treatable. Call 844-576-0144 for immediate assistance.

Sources

1. https://www.poison.org/about-webpoisoncontrol
2. https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling
3. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/fentanyl
4. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/naloxone
5. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medication-assisted-treatment-mat