Merriam Webster defines an overdose as "too great a dose (as of a therapeutic agent) also : a lethal or toxic amount (as of a drug).” The human body is able to metabolize most medications and drugs when taken in small or recommended doses. Substance levels reach "toxic" levels when they become too high for the body to metabolize. At this point you'll start to see physical and mental changes.

Once toxic levels occur, side effects become prominent. These side effects can vary from annoying to absolutely fatal. The side effects or symptoms depend on what (and how much) was consumed.

Recognizing the symptoms of an overdose quickly can save a life. Let's look at the different drugs, what they do, what they are called, and how we can respond when 911 is called.