Your Friend ODs
Intentional or accidental, taking too much of a drug—illicit, prescription, or over the counter—can lead to an overdose. And if that happens to your friend, you have to think twice about your responsibilities.
A drug overdose can be hard to identify, because overdose symptoms vary based on the drug. Depending on the drug, symptoms can include trouble breathing, convulsions, vomiting, and unconsciousness.
And on top of being unsure about your friend’s condition, you’re also scared:
“I don’t want my parents to know I was around drugs.”
“I wasn’t even supposed to be at this party—I said I was at the library.”
“I was the one who gave my friend the drugs and I don’t want to get in trouble.”
“But what if my friend just needs to sleep it off?”
The harsh truth is: even if you’re going to get in trouble, if you don’t do the right thing, your friend could be critically injured or die. If you know something is wrong, get help.
What should you do in case of a drug overdose?
If you suspect a friend has overdosed, getting medical attention can save his or her life.
Call 911. Give accurate details about what happened and make sure you provide first responders or emergency medical personnel with as much information as possible:
- What drug(s) your friend took
- How long ago the drugs were taken
- How much was taken (if you know)
- Who else (like your friend's family members) should be contacted immediately
Be honest with the medical professionals who ask questions about your friend. Withholding information or lying could have serious consequences such as a harmful drug interaction or the wrong treatment.
On the same note: You might be tempted to leave your friend at a hospital and take off to avoid getting in trouble. However, you might have important information that can help the doctors and nurses, so stick around and do your best to honestly answer their questions.