överdosens

Överdosens is a term used in Swedish to refer to an overdose, the event in which a person takes a toxic quantity of a drug or a dangerous combination of substances. It can involve prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, or illicit substances and may be accidental, intentional, or the result of misuse.

Causes and context vary by substance and individual factors. Overdoses occur when the amount taken overwhelms the body’s ability to cope, leading to acute toxicity. Risk increases with polydrug use, age, organ disease, or existing health conditions. Overdoses can be intentional (for example, suicide attempts) or unintentional, due to incorrect dosing, mislabeling, or drug interactions.

Symptoms and consequences depend on the substance but common signs include confusion, vomiting, slowed or irregular breathing, reduced consciousness, seizures, and chest pain. Severe overdoses can cause organ failure and death; prompt medical attention is essential to reduce the risk of lasting harm.

Response and treatment emphasize rapid emergency care. If an overdose is suspected, call emergency services immediately. If opioid overdose is suspected and naloxone is available, administer it according to local guidelines. In a hospital setting, treatment may involve securing the airway, providing antidotes, supporting circulation, and monitoring organ function. Some cases require intensive care and longer observation.

Prevention focuses on safe medication practices and education. Key measures include proper dosing, secure storage to prevent access by others, avoiding mixing substances, and seeking help for substance use disorders. Public health efforts support access to overdose-reversal drugs, poison-control resources, and harm-reduction services to reduce the burden of overdoses on communities.