People use drugs for a range of reasons. Though many drugs can create a temporary sensation of pleasure, drugs can also cause short and long-term damage to your body. Whether you dabble in drugs recreationally or use them every day, it's vital to get professional help before an accidental overdose occurs.
Depending on the type of drug consumed, effects to the body will vary. For example, taking methamphetamines is more harmful than smoking marijuana. Though all drugs negatively impact your body in one aspect or another, it's important to be familiar with the drugs that most commonly lead to an overdose (according to NIH):
A particular drug may be used for countless reasons. For instance, easy access, price, peer usage, and type of high usually affect a person's motives. Though specific drugs can lead to numerous complications, when any drug is abused and taken in an excessive amount, there is usually only one outcome: a drug overdose.
When someone overdoses on a drug (no matter what the exact drug may be), the signs are relatively universal:
If you know someone who abuses drugs regularly and you see them experiencing these symptoms, then it's vital that you seek help immediately. Start by calling 9-1-1. It may take time for emergency assistance to arrive; therefore, turn the person over on his or her side to prevent choking or asphyxiation from vomit.
The most effective way to prevent an overdose is to quit using drugs (with or without professional assistance). However, there are other steps to take if discontinuing consumption is not your current plan:
A drug addiction can lead to irreversible consequences. If you or someone you know has a drug problem, we urge you to find the appropriate treatment.
