The First 10 Minutes: A Step-by-Step Guide During an Opioid Overdose
Knowing what to do in the first 10 minutes of an opioid overdose can save a life.
An opioid overdose can happen anywhere—a home, a restaurant, a school, a workplace, or even in a public
restroom. Whether it’s caused by prescription pain medication, heroin, or fentanyl, every minute matters.
The good news is that ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference. You don’t have to be a doctor
or paramedic to respond. By recognizing the signs of an overdose, calling 911, administering Narcan®
(naloxone), and providing rescue breathing, you may help keep someone alive until emergency medical
services arrive.
At the Robin Foundation, we believe education saves lives. Here’s what everyone should know
Look for:
The person cannot be awakened or won’t respond to shouting or a firm sternal rub (rubbing your
knuckles firmly on the center of their chest).
Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing.
Blue, gray, or pale lips and fingernails.
Pinpoint (very small) pupils.
Limp body.
Gurgling, choking, or snoring sounds that are unusual.
If you’re unsure whether it’s an overdose, treat it as one. Acting quickly is safer than waiting.
Tell the dispatcher:
- Your exact location.
- That the person is unconscious or not breathing normally.
- If you believe an opioid overdose is involved.
- If Narcan has been or will be administered.
Stay on the phone unless instructed otherwise. Follow the dispatcher’s instructions while help is on the way. Even if Narcan appears to work, emergency medical evaluation is still essential. Narcan’s effects can wear off before the opioids leave the person’s system, allowing the overdose symptoms to return.
Step 3: Administer Narcan (Naloxone)
If using the nasal spray:
- Remove the device from the package.
- Lay the person on their back.
- Tilt the head back slightly.
- Insert the nozzle into one nostril until your fingers touch the nose.
- Press the plunger firmly to deliver the full dose.
If there is no response after 2 to 3 minutes, administer a second dose if one is available.
Remember:
Narcan only works on opioid overdoses.
It will not reverse overdoses caused solely by stimulants such as cocaine or methamphetamine.
Giving Narcan to someone who has not taken opioids is generally not harmful, so if you are unsure,
it is still appropriate to administer it.
If there is no response after 2 to 3 minutes, administer a second dose if one is available.
Remember:
- Narcan only works on opioid overdoses.
- It will not reverse overdoses caused solely by stimulants such as cocaine or methamphetamine.
- Giving Narcan to someone who has not taken opioids is generally not harmful, so if you are unsure,
it is still appropriate to administer it.
Step 4: Provide Rescue Breathing
Opioids slow or stop breathing, making oxygen the most urgent need.
If the person is not breathing or is breathing only occasionally:
- Tilt the head back and lift the chin.
- Pinch the nose closed.
- Give one slow breath every 5 to 6 seconds, watching for the chest to rise.
- Continue rescue breathing until the person begins breathing normally or emergency responders take over.
If you are trained in CPR and the person has no pulse, begin CPR and follow dispatcher instructions.
Step 5: Stay With the Person Until EMS Arrives
Never leave someone alone after administering Narcan.
While waiting:
- Continue to monitor breathing.
- If breathing stops again, continue rescue breathing.
- If the person vomits or begins breathing on their own but remains unconscious, place them in the recovery position (on their side with the top leg bent to help keep the airway clear).
- Offer reassurance if they wake up. Narcan can cause sudden withdrawal symptoms, leaving the person confused, frightened, or upset.
- Remain calm and stay with them until emergency medical personnel arrive and assume care.
Why Every Minute Matters
Brain injury can begin within minutes when the body is deprived of oxygen. Quick action can mean the difference between life and death.
You don’t have to be perfect.
You just have to act.
By recognizing the signs, calling 911, administering Narcan, providing rescue breathing, and remaining with the individual until help arrives, you can give someone another chance at recovery.
Be Prepared Before an Emergency Happens
Overdoses don’t happen on a schedule. Being prepared today can save a life tomorrow.
Consider:
- Carrying Narcan wherever you go.
- Learning how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose.
- Encouraging your workplace, school, faith community, or organization to provide overdose response training.
- Talking openly with family and friends about opioid safety and overdose prevention.
Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools we have in the fight against the opioid crisis.
At the Robin Foundation, our mission is to educate, empower, and equip communities to respond confidently during an overdose emergency. Together, we can replace fear with action—and help save lives.
Important Reminder
This article is intended for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or emergency care. Always call 911 immediately if you suspect an overdose, even if Narcan has been administered and the person appears to recover.
Related Posts
Naloxone 4 mg vs. 8 mg: Is a Higher Dose Better?
