Overdose Information & Response

Overdose Awareness & Response

An overdose can happen to anyone who uses drugs, but understanding the risks and knowing how to respond can save lives. This page provides practical information on overdose prevention, recognising the warning signs, and what to do in an emergency. If you think someone has overdosed, always call emergency services immediately.

Freephone: 1800 78 68 28

Recovery (the recovery position)

Short film showing how to put someone who is unconscious and breathing in the recovery position.

Overdose

Overdose risk factors include:

Using more than one drug
Injecting drugs
Using alone
Using drugs after a period of abstinence

Do mind yourself.

Its always safest not to use drugs, but if you do use:

Don’t use alone
Only use one drug at a time
Wait as long as possible between hits

Always be ready for an overdose.

Know what to do, and make sure your friends do too:

Put the person in the recovery position
Call the ambulance on 112
Wait for the ambulance to arrive

Naloxone

Naloxone is available in Ireland, Naloxone is used to reverse the effects of opioid drugs like heroin, morphine and methadone if someone overdoses. It only works for these types of drugs. For more information on Naloxone visit drugs.ie/naloxone

For more information about overdose visit drugs.ie/overdose

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Voices From Our Community

"I never felt judged. For the first time, I felt listened to and supported to make changes at my own pace."

— Ana Liffey Service User

FAQs

Do I have to stop using drugs to get help?

No. You do not need to stop using drugs or alcohol to access support from Ana Liffey. We meet people where they are and work alongside them without judgement, helping them identify the support and goals that are right for them.

Will I be judged or shamed?

No. Our services are built on respect, dignity and understanding. We provide a welcoming, non-judgemental environment where people can talk openly about their situation and explore their options for positive change.

Will my information be kept confidential?

Yes. Information shared with us is treated confidentially and handled in accordance with data protection requirements. If there are situations where information needs to be shared to protect someone's safety, this will be explained clearly.