If you think that someone is overdosing on an opioid or another substance:
Call 911 immediately.*
Give naloxone as quickly as possible, if available. Do not wait for emergency workers to arrive before giving naloxone.
Try to keep the person awake and breathing.
Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
Stay with the person until emergency workers arrive.
Naloxone is a temporary treatment. More than one dose might be needed under some circumstances, especially if an overdose event involves illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMFs).
*Most states have Good Samaritan Laws that may protect a person who is overdosing or the person who called for help from legal trouble.
OVERDOSE PREVENTION AND PROVEN HARM REDUCTION METHODS
HARM REDUCTION
Harm reduction is a set of strategies and concepts designed to reduce the adverse effects of drug use. Learn more what harm reduction is, its principles, and how it fits in with substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery.
Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids. Find out more information about naloxone, how it can save someone’s life, how you can get it, and how to use it.
Read more about how Maine’s Good Samaritan Law prevents a person from being arrested or prosecuted for certain violations—if you or someone you are with is experiencing a drug overdose, administer naloxone, and call 9-1-1.
Access to mapping tools related to SUD treatment, such as residential treatment facilities, withdrawal resources, recovery residence options, and more.
