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Overdose indicators

Substance

Signs

Alcohol Drowsiness, shallow breathing (lips may turn blue), enlarged pupils.

Never assume that alcohol is the only cause of drowsiness or overdose. For example, a head injury may be present or tablets may have been taken.

The 'Pams'

e.g. Normison®,

Valium®,

Serepax®,

Rohypnol®

Drowsiness (which may be increasing), slurred speech, unsteadiness.
Amphetamine ('speed') Restlessness and agitation, anxiety, paranoid symptoms (e.g. misinterpretation of actions or gestures), hallucinations (either of voices or visions). Aggression and violence may occur. Pupils are enlarged.
Heroin Drowsiness, pinpoint pupils, shallow or very slow breathing (lips may appear blue in colour), slow pulse rate.

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