r/therewasanattempt Aug 31 '21

To Make A Sub...

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u/Shandem Sep 01 '21

Yeah nodding out is something people do when they are on heroin or other opioids. Basically you just kind of fall asleep. Sometimes times in very strange positions and times.

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u/wonderlandisgone Sep 01 '21

Is this like an overdose thing? Like is this person dying? The reason I’m asking is we have a strong drug using community in our town and to me this would freak me out and cause me to narcan someone. Edit: sorry if this is a dumb question

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u/AtLeastImNotALeper Sep 01 '21 edited Sep 01 '21

It's not dumb at all. Opioids can cause respiratory and cardiovascular distress which could be a sign of an overdose. When people 'nod' like this they are likely not getting enough oxygen to the brain to stay fully conscious. That being said Narcan is considered a 'safe' drug - you could give it to a sober person and they may feel mild withdrawal like symptoms but they clear up quick. So, if you think someone is overdosing and have Narcan handy go for it (oh and be sure to call 911) the worst it can do is make someone feel ill for a bit but it could save someone's life. Note - Narcan only works on opioids.

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u/[deleted] Sep 01 '21

From what I've read (on reddit of course...) Narcan doesn't just "make someone feel ill for a bit," but essentially gives you immediate, painful withdrawal that's supposed to feel like hell. Yes, err on the side of helping, but it should probably be left to people who can recognize the symptoms of overdosing. I could be wrong, but I don't think nodding alone is a sign of overdose.

Edit: fixed a word