Know the risks
- Heroin can cause life-threatening overdose, even in a single line of powder.
- People who have never or rarely used heroin or other opioids are at highest risk of overdose.
- You are at increased risk of overdose if you:
- Re-dose when you are not getting the desired effect.
- Use a high dose.
- Use with other drugs e.g. alcohol, benzodiazepines, ketamine, GHB, opioids.
- Use drugs when you are alone.
Effects to look out for
- Use of heroin may result in pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slow breathing/snoring and skin turning blue/grey.
- Be on the lookout for unexpected symptoms, such as drowsiness following use of a stimulant (e.g. cocaine).
Getting help
If you or your friends see the warning signs of overdose:
- Seek help immediately from your nearest emergency department or call Triple Zero (000). You won’t get into trouble for seeking medical
care.
- Start
CPR if someone is not breathing.
- Use
naloxone if you have it. Call ‘000’ even if naloxone has been given.
Support and advice
For free and confidential advice:
Take Home Naloxone program
