The method by which opium is used can sometimes produce different side effects and overdose symptoms.  When opium is taken orally, the symptoms of overdose tend to mimic those of a common overdose symptoms associated with many prescription medications and may or may not be life threatening.  In the event that overdose symptoms do occur, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention by calling 911.

Immediate Symptoms of Overdose

The most common symptoms of opiate overdose include chest pain, discomfort, confusion and difficulty breathing but there are many others which may arise.  Pay close attention to these symptoms of opium overdose if you or someone you know has taken opium orally or has used an opium derivative such as heroin, morphine or codeine recently:

• Anxiety or nervousness
• Chest pain
• Chills or cold sweats
• Coma
• Confusion or delusions
• Hallucinations
• Clammy skin or paleness
• Coughing persistently
• Trouble breathing or swallowing
• Nightmares
• Tremors
• Low blood pressure
• No pulse
• Not breathing
• Seizures or convulsions
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Itching
• Swelling or skin rash

Many of these symptoms of overdose will not be immediately recognizable while others may appear rather quickly following the opium use.  Prolonged or sustained opium use can lead to many dangerous health effects that include withdrawal, damage to the liver and kidneys and long term mental health related issues.

If you or someone you know is addicted to opium or is showing signs of opium overdose as a result of having used an opiate, call for help.  For immediate medical attention, call 911.  If addiction is a problem, call our helpline at 888-959-0638 to talk with an adviser about your treatment options today.