Signs of Narcotic (morphine, heroin) overdose

Description

A life threatening condition where too much narcotic is taken resulting in decreased breathing and if untreated death. Loss of normal swallowing reflexes can occur and if the patient vomits the stomach contents can enter the lungs. This is called aspiration and can result in a serious lung infection called aspiration pneumonia. A heart attack or stroke can also occur from the decreased breathing secondary to decreased oxygen supply to the heart and brain.

Symptoms

Confusion, coma, blue skin (cyanosis), vomiting, fainting, fast heart rate, poor or no respiratory effort, weak pulse.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to determine damage done by the narcotic abuse may be performed.

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
Troponin
UA
X-Ray
EKG
CT Scan
BHCG

Treatment

These patients need immediate treatment to prevent permanent brain damage and death. A narcotic antagonist is administered with naloxone (narcan) being the most common. Naloxone can be given in the vein (intravenous), in the muscle (intramuscular / IM), under the skin (subcutaneously) or down a breathing tube (endotracheal tube). It has a rapid onset of action, and if the patient is a chronic user of narcotics he/she will experience acute narcotic withdrawal upon administering of the drug. The other deleterious effects of the overdose will be treated as well. For more information call the National Poison Control Phone Number 1-800-222-1222.