International Overdose Awareness Day is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose and remember those who have died without stigma and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind.

The campaign raises awareness of overdose, which is one of the world’s worst public health crises, and stimulates action and discussion about evidence-based overdose prevention and drug policy.

A Proclamation on Overdose Awareness Week, 2021 | The White House

What is an Overdose?

An overdose means having more of a drug (or combination of drugs) than your body can cope with. There are a number of signs and symptoms that show someone has overdosed, they differ with the type of drug used.

Depressants and Opioids
A depressant is a drug that slows the vital activities of the body including breathing and the heart rate.
Barbiturates Drug Factsheet
Benzodiazepines Drug Factsheet

Opioids, slow the central nervous system to produce a calming effect. 
Fentanyl Drug Factsheet
Heroin Drug Factsheet

When taken in access amounts or in combination, they can depress normal functions such as breathing and heart rate until breathing and the heart rate eventually stop.

Stimulants
Amphetamine overdose increases the risk of a heart attack, stroke, seizure or drug induced psychotic episodes.
Amphetamines Drug Factsheet
Cocaine Drug Factsheet
Methamphetamine Drug Factsheet

How Do Drug Overdoses Happen?

First Aid for Drug Overdose
A range of signs and symptoms can occur when a person overdoses, everyone responds differently. 
Seek Emergency Help for any of the following symptoms

• Unconscious
• Seizure
• Headache
• Chest Pain
• Breathing Difficulties
• Confusion/Paranoia/Agitation
• Snowing or Gurgling - Don't ignore snoring or gurgling it could indicate the person is having a hard time breathing.

What Should you do During an Overdose

Treatment and Recovery