Someone may need urgent help.
Call your local emergency number now if someone is unconscious, having a seizure, struggling to breathe, or is very hot and confused. Follow the dispatcher’s instructions. [1] [2]
What should I do while help arrives?
- Stay with the person. Keep checking their breathing and responsiveness. Tell the dispatcher your exact location. [1]
- If they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, follow dispatcher-guided CPR. If unconscious but breathing normally, place them in the recovery position and keep checking breathing. [1]
- Tell responders what you know: substances, medicines, timing and symptoms. Do not delay calling because the contents are uncertain. [3]
- Do not force food or drink or induce vomiting when poisoning is suspected. Follow professional advice. [1]
What signs are concerning?
Collapse, seizures, breathing difficulties, severe confusion or overheating warrant urgent help. You do not need to identify which drug or medical condition caused them before calling. [2]
Do not wait for a test result
Give responders any available information, but let them assess and treat the person. This page cannot diagnose an emergency. [1]
Sources
- NHS: poisoning and immediate first aid
- Healthdirect Australia: ecstasy (MDMA)
- FRANK: ecstasy and urgent help
Sources checked November 14, 2026. Author details pending; independent medical review not yet completed. This guide can be cached after a successful online visit, but offline access is not guaranteed. Keep local emergency arrangements available separately.