Overdose occurs when the level of intoxication from the drug reaches a point where it begins to produce physical and/or psychological harm. Overdose from heroin occurs as a result of the depressant properties of the drug. Heroin can slow a person’s heart rate and breathing rate. In some cases, a person may experience heart failure and respiratory failure, which may lead to coma and death.
The risk of overdose generally increases with a larger dose. As the strength and content of street heroin is unknown it can be difficult to judge the dose, increasing the risk of overdose.
A drug overdose is life threatening. If an overdose occurs, knowing what to look for and how to respond can be the only way to save a life. Click here for more information.