Drugs - What to do in an Emergency

What can I do when faced with an emergency through taking drugs?

Drugs can make people feel drowsy, tense, or even cause panic attacks. Some drugs affect the body by causing it to overheat and become dangerously dehydrated and the worst scenario is if the body has a bad reaction to a drug and causes the person to fall unconscious.

Emergency action to be taken:
If you think you've overdosed, or someone else has, you should call an ambulance right away. If a friend has overdosed and you know what sort of drugs they've taken, tell the ambulance crew. You won't get into trouble for doing this, and it could save their life.

If someone is overheating and becoming dehydrated after taking drugs and dancing (symptoms may include fainting, feeling sick, headache, sudden tiredness, cramps and stopping sweating), they should immediately take a rest and slowly sip about a pint of water. Splashing cool water on the face and neck can help lower the body temperature.

If someone passes out or looks as if they're about to pass out, put them in the recovery position, loosen any tight clothing that might restrict their breathing, and talk to them to try to keep them awake. Never give someone black coffee to wake them up — it may have the opposite effect. If there are no signs of improvement, call an ambulance. If you know what sort of drugs they've been taking, tell the ambulance crew.

If someone who has taken drugs panics or gets very anxious, take them somewhere quiet and warm and reassure them that they will gradually feel better. Don't leave them alone. For further information about how to cope with problems stemming from taking drugs check out the following websites or HelpLines…

SADAS  - I need help now (with emergency advice)
www.sadas.org.uk/talk-to-someone-now.php?source=menu

Talk to Frank
0800 77 66 00
www.talktofrank.com

Surrey Young People's Service
www.in-volve.org.uk/involve/index_31.html