What is an overdose?

An overdose means a person has too much of a substance in their body. When alcohol, cannabis, street drugs or prescription medicine are taken in toxic amounts, the body becomes overwhelmed.

An overdose can seriously harm someone, and can be deadly if they don't get medical help right away.

If your tolerance is lower. 

Maybe you’re using a new drug, or you took a break from using for a while.

If you're having health issues.

If you're tired, run down, dehydrated or have other health complications, like a long-term or chronic illness, you're at a higher risk to overdose.

If you mix drugs.

Even if it's prescription medicine, you risk an overdose if you combine drugs and alcohol.

If the drugs are different or unknown.

Maybe you changed dealers or towns. What you're taking could be stronger than usual, or tainted.

By accident.

An adult or child might accidentally take a drug.