Overdose Detection

Heart rate slows or stops during overdose

Opioids taken in large amounts can interfere with receptors between the brain and heart, causing the heart rate to slow down or even stop. As breathing slows, oxygen levels fall, which may trigger abnormal heart rhythms. 

Opioids can deprive the brain of oxygen

Oxygen flow becomes limited and permanent brain damage can occur within only four minutes of oxygen deprivation. Opioid overdose can cause seizures, which may further damage the brain. Permanent brain damage can leave people paralyzed or unable to speak

Opioids slow breathing which can be fatal.

Opioid overdoses can slow the person’s breathing which can be fatal. It can cause pulmonary edema, a fluid leak that fills up the air spaces of the lungs where he person may be unable to swallow or spit, which can lead to choking or vomiting

Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of an Overdose

The American Red Cross