When someone overdoses on ATS, it is generally due to the amount and/or the quality of the drug. ATS overdose is a serious medical emergency which if left untreated can lead to a number of severe problems such as dangerous overheating, stroke, heart attack, brain hemorrhage, coma and even death.

Signs that someone may be experiencing an overdose:

• Overheating
• Panic attacks
• Fits/Seizures
• Sweating profusely
• Agitation and confusion
• Chest pains and breathing problems
• Difficulties with cognitive and motor skills

In the event of an overdose, don't hesitate to call 000 or 112 if you are calling from a mobile phone. Remember that ambulance officers won’t call the police to the scene of an OD unless they feel at risk, or if they feel other people may be at risk. You can save a life if you tell the ambulance personnel what the person has taken. Do not drive the person to hospital as you may waste precious time. An ambulance can assess, monitor and alleviate the situation quickly and give the person the help they need.

Some important steps to take when someone is experiencing an ATS overdose:

Environment: Reduce stimulation by removing the person from excessive noise, large groups of people, and brightly lit up areas.

Temperature: Cool the person down as overheating can lead to seizure, brain damage and heart attack. Loosen or remove clothing where appropriate and apply a wet cloth or an ice pack to the persons under arm, neck and groin to reduce the
temperature.

Reassure: Stay with the person and reassure them that the ambulance is on its way. Use a calm voice when talking to the patient and give them the reassurance that you won’t leave them.

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