Opioid Overdose in Teens: Care Instructions
Overview
You have had treatment to help your body recover from taking too much of an opioid. You are getting better,
but you may not feel well for a while. It takes time for the opioids to leave your body. How long it takes to
feel better depends on which drug you took and how much you took of it.
You may have withdrawal symptoms when you stop using opioids or use them less. These symptoms can include
nausea, sweating, chills, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and muscle aches. You may feel very ill, but you probably
aren't in medical danger.
Opioids include drugs such as heroin and medicines that doctors prescribe to treat pain. These are medicines
such as oxycodone, fentanyl, and morphine. They are sometimes sold and used illegally.
Taking too much of an opioid can be dangerous. It may cause trouble breathing, low blood pressure, and low
heart rate. It can also lead to a coma or death.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all
appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results
and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
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Take your medicines as prescribed. Do not mix alcohol with medicines that make you tired, like sleeping
pills or muscle relaxers.
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If you have withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, sweating, chills, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and muscle
aches:
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Sip liquids if you have a sore throat. You may have had a tube in your throat to help you breathe.
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Do not drive if you feel sleepy or groggy while you recover from an overdose.
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Get help to stop using opioids. Talk to your doctor about substance use treatment programs.
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Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about having a naloxone rescue kit on hand.
When should you call for help?
Call 911
anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a
substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:
Consider saving these numbers in your phone.
Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Current as of: November 15, 2023
Content Version: 14.0
Care instructions adapted under license by your
healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask
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