Top 33 Slang For Overdose – Meaning & Usage

Overdose, a term that carries heavy implications and consequences, is unfortunately a reality that many individuals face. It’s important to be aware of the slang terms associated with overdose to better understand the conversations surrounding this serious issue. Our team has compiled a list of the top slang for overdose to help educate and inform readers about this topic. By familiarizing ourselves with these terms, we can contribute to a more informed and supportive community.

Click above to generate some slangs

1. OD

This term refers to the act of consuming an excessive amount of a substance, such as drugs or alcohol, to the point of toxicity or serious harm. It is often used to describe a dangerous situation involving substance abuse.

For example, “He OD’d on heroin and had to be rushed to the hospital.”
In a conversation about drug addiction, someone might say, “I’m worried that he’s going to OD if he doesn’t get help.”
A news headline might read, “Teenager found dead after ODing on prescription pills.”

2. Oding

This term is a verb form of “OD” and refers to the act of consuming an excessive amount of a substance, often with negative consequences. It is commonly used in the context of drug abuse.

For instance, “She’s been oding on prescription painkillers for months.”
In a discussion about the dangers of substance abuse, someone might say, “Oding can have serious and potentially fatal consequences.”
A person sharing their personal experience might say, “I’ve struggled with oding on various drugs in the past.”

3. Nodding off

This phrase is used to describe the state of falling asleep unintentionally, often due to the effects of drugs or medication. It is commonly associated with opioid use.

For example, “After taking a strong dose of painkillers, he started nodding off during the movie.”
In a conversation about the sedating effects of certain drugs, someone might say, “Be careful with those pills, they can make you nod off unexpectedly.”
A person describing their experience might say, “I was so high on heroin that I kept nodding off and waking up.”

4. Zoning out

This phrase refers to the act of mentally disengaging or becoming lost in one’s thoughts, often to the point of being unaware of one’s surroundings. It can be used to describe the effects of certain substances or the behavior of someone under the influence.

For instance, “After smoking marijuana, I just sat on the couch and zoned out for hours.”
In a conversation about the effects of drugs, someone might say, “I hate how I zone out and lose track of time when I’m high.”
A person describing their experience might say, “I was so out of it, I was just zoning out and not really present.”

5. Going overboard

This phrase is used to describe the act of consuming or doing something to an excessive or extreme extent, often beyond what is considered safe or reasonable. It can be used in the context of substance abuse and the potential risks involved.

For example, “He went overboard with the partying and ended up hospitalized for alcohol poisoning.”
In a conversation about the dangers of drug use, someone might say, “Going overboard with drugs can lead to serious health complications.”
A person describing their experience might say, “I didn’t realize I was going overboard until I woke up in the hospital.”

6. Blowing a fuse

This phrase is used metaphorically to describe someone overdosing on drugs. It suggests that the person’s body or mind is experiencing an overload or malfunction, similar to a blown fuse in an electrical system.

For example, someone might say, “He was partying too hard and ended up blowing a fuse.”
In a conversation about drug use, a person might mention, “I knew someone who blew a fuse and had to be rushed to the hospital.”
Another might warn, “Be careful with those drugs, you don’t want to blow a fuse.”

7. Dropping

This term is slang for overdosing on drugs. It implies that the person has taken a dangerous or excessive amount of drugs, leading to an overdose.

For instance, someone might say, “He was found unconscious after dropping at the party.”
In a discussion about drug abuse, a person might mention, “I’ve seen too many people ruin their lives by dropping.”
Another might caution, “If you’re going to experiment with drugs, make sure you know your limits to avoid dropping.”

8. Hitting the floor

This phrase is used to describe someone overdosing on drugs and collapsing or falling to the ground as a result. It suggests a sudden and severe reaction to the drugs.

For example, someone might say, “He was hitting the floor after taking those pills.”
In a conversation about drug addiction, a person might mention, “I’ve seen people hitting the floor and thought they were dead.”
Another might warn, “If you see someone hitting the floor, call for help immediately.”

9. Flatlining

This term is derived from medical terminology and refers to someone overdosing on drugs and experiencing a life-threatening situation. It compares the person’s vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, to a flatline on a hospital monitor.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s been flatlining for a while, they need to administer naloxone.”
In a discussion about drug overdoses, a person might mention, “The paramedics arrived just in time to revive the flatlining patient.”
Another might caution, “If you suspect someone is flatlining, call 911 immediately.”

10. Checking out

This phrase is slang for overdosing on drugs and refers to the person dying as a result. It implies that the person is permanently “checking out” of life.

For example, someone might say, “He was found dead in his apartment, he checked out.”
In a conversation about drug-related deaths, a person might mention, “Too many young people are checking out due to overdose.”
Another might warn, “Don’t mess around with drugs, you never know when you might accidentally check out.”

11. Going out with a bang

This phrase refers to someone dying from a drug overdose, often in a dramatic or sudden manner.

For example, “He was known for his wild lifestyle, so it’s not surprising that he went out with a bang.”
In a discussion about drug addiction, someone might say, “We need to raise awareness about the dangers of going out with a bang.”
A news headline might read, “Famous musician found dead, going out with a bang.”

12. Riding the white horse

This slang term specifically refers to using cocaine, often in a recreational or party setting.

For instance, “He’s been riding the white horse all night at the club.”
In a conversation about drug use, someone might say, “I used to ride the white horse, but I’ve been clean for years now.”
A cautionary article might warn, “The dangers of riding the white horse can lead to addiction and serious health issues.”

13. Shooting the moon

This phrase refers to taking a large or excessive amount of drugs, often with the intention of getting high or experiencing a more intense effect.

For example, “He was feeling adventurous and decided to shoot the moon with his drug use.”
In a discussion about drug abuse, someone might say, “Shooting the moon is a dangerous behavior that can lead to overdose.”
A cautionary message might state, “Don’t be tempted to shoot the moon with your drug use, it’s not worth the risk.”

14. Going to the dark side

This slang phrase refers to someone becoming addicted to drugs and entering a dangerous or negative lifestyle as a result.

For instance, “He started experimenting with drugs and eventually went to the dark side.”
In a conversation about drug addiction, someone might say, “We need to help those who have gone to the dark side and support their recovery.”
An article might discuss the warning signs of going to the dark side and offer resources for addiction recovery.

15. Taking a dirt nap

This phrase is a euphemism for dying, specifically from a drug overdose.

For example, “He took a dirt nap after a night of heavy drug use.”
In a discussion about the opioid crisis, someone might say, “Too many young people are taking a dirt nap due to overdose.”
A news headline might read, “Celebrity tragically takes a dirt nap, highlighting the dangers of drug abuse.”

16. Going six feet under

This slang phrase refers to the act of dying from a drug overdose. It emphasizes the finality and permanence of death.

For example, “He went six feet under after taking a lethal dose of heroin.”
In a discussion about the dangers of drug abuse, someone might say, “Going six feet under is a tragic consequence of addiction.”
A recovering addict might share their experience, “I almost went six feet under, but I’m grateful to be alive and sober today.”

17. ODing out

This slang term is used to describe the act of experiencing an overdose. It can refer to overdosing on any substance, such as drugs or alcohol.

For instance, “She ended up ODing out on a combination of opioids and benzodiazepines.”
In a conversation about the opioid crisis, someone might say, “Many people are ODing out due to the prevalence of fentanyl in street drugs.”
A healthcare professional might discuss the signs of an overdose and say, “If someone is ODing out, it’s crucial to call emergency services immediately.”

18. Going out

This slang phrase is used to describe the act of dying from an overdose. It implies a sudden and unexpected death due to drug or substance abuse.

For example, “He went out after taking a lethal combination of drugs.”
In a discussion about the risks of substance abuse, someone might say, “Going out is a tragic outcome that can be prevented with proper education and support.”
A concerned friend might express their worries, “I’m scared that he might go out if he doesn’t get help for his addiction.”

19. Going under

This slang term refers to the act of overdosing on drugs. It implies losing consciousness or passing out as a result of taking a dangerously high dose.

For instance, “He went under after injecting a large amount of heroin.”
In a conversation about the dangers of drug use, someone might say, “Many young people are going under due to the availability of potent synthetic drugs.”
A healthcare provider might discuss the risks of going under and say, “Overdosing can have severe consequences, including brain damage or death.”

20. Overamping

This slang term specifically refers to experiencing an overdose on stimulant drugs, such as methamphetamine or cocaine. It describes the intense and overwhelming effects of taking too much of these substances.

For example, “He was overamping after snorting a large amount of meth.”
In a discussion about the dangers of stimulant abuse, someone might say, “Overamping can lead to severe cardiovascular complications and psychosis.”
A recovering addict might share their experience, “I’ve had a few close calls with overamping, and it’s not something I ever want to experience again.”

21. Taking the last hit

This phrase refers to consuming a lethal dose of drugs, often with the intention of causing death. “Taking the last hit” implies that it will be the final dose the person ever takes.

For example, a person might say, “He was so depressed that he took the last hit and ended his life.”
In a discussion about drug addiction, someone might mention, “Taking the last hit is a tragic consequence of addiction.”
A news article might report, “The victim was found dead after taking the last hit of a deadly cocktail of drugs.”

22. Going out in a blaze of glory

This phrase suggests overdosing on drugs in a manner that is grandiose, attention-grabbing, or memorable. It often implies a desire to be remembered for the act.

For instance, someone might say, “He always wanted to go out in a blaze of glory, and unfortunately, he achieved it by overdosing.”
In a discussion about famous musicians who died from drug overdoses, one might mention, “Many of them went out in a blaze of glory, leaving a lasting legacy.”
A news headline might read, “Local artist found dead, going out in a blaze of glory.”

23. Going out in a cloud of smoke

This phrase describes overdosing on drugs and subsequently dying. “Going out in a cloud of smoke” suggests a sudden and final departure from life.

For example, a person might say, “He struggled with addiction for years, and unfortunately, he went out in a cloud of smoke.”
In a discussion about the dangers of drug abuse, someone might mention, “Many young people go out in a cloud of smoke due to overdose.”
A news report might state, “The victim was found dead, going out in a cloud of smoke after a drug overdose.”

24. Going out in flames

This phrase refers to overdosing on drugs in a way that is destructive or self-destructive. “Going out in flames” implies a fiery and destructive end.

For instance, someone might say, “He had a history of self-destructive behavior, and he ultimately went out in flames by overdosing.”
In a discussion about the consequences of drug addiction, one might mention, “Going out in flames is a tragic outcome of addiction.”
A news headline might read, “Local artist dies in fiery overdose, going out in flames.”

25. Taking the ultimate trip

This phrase suggests overdosing on drugs and experiencing the ultimate trip, which refers to the intense hallucinatory effects of the drugs. “Taking the ultimate trip” implies that it will be the final journey the person ever takes.

For example, a person might say, “He was seeking a transcendent experience and ended up taking the ultimate trip, which tragically led to his death.”
In a discussion about the dangers of drug abuse, someone might mention, “Many people underestimate the risks of taking the ultimate trip.”
A news article might report, “The victim was found dead after taking the ultimate trip, a dangerous mix of drugs that proved fatal.”

26. OD’d

This is a shorthand way of saying that someone has taken an excessive amount of drugs or medication, resulting in an overdose. The term “OD’d” is often used in informal conversations or online discussions.

For instance, someone might say, “I heard he OD’d last night.”
In a news report about a drug-related incident, a journalist might write, “Three individuals were found OD’d at the scene.”
A concerned friend might ask, “Have you seen him? I’m worried he might have OD’d again.”

27. OD’ing on

This phrase is used to describe the act of intentionally or unintentionally taking too much of a substance, resulting in an overdose. The term “OD’ing on” is often used to specify the substance on which the overdose occurred.

For example, someone might say, “She’s OD’ing on opioids.”
In a discussion about the dangers of prescription medication, a person might comment, “Many people are OD’ing on painkillers.”
A concerned parent might ask their child, “Are you OD’ing on drugs? We need to get you help.”

28. Overdosing

Overdosing refers to taking an excessive amount of a drug, either intentionally or accidentally. It can lead to severe health consequences or even death.

For example, “He was rushed to the hospital after overdosing on opioids.”
A concerned friend might say, “I’m worried that she’s been overdosing on prescription medication.”
In a discussion about drug abuse, someone might mention, “Overdosing is a major problem in our community.”

29. Overdose death

An overdose death occurs when someone takes a lethal amount of a drug, resulting in their death. It is a tragic outcome of substance abuse.

For instance, “The city has seen a significant increase in overdose deaths in recent years.”
A news headline might read, “Overdose deaths reach record high in the state.”
In a conversation about the opioid epidemic, someone might say, “We need to take action to prevent overdose deaths.”

30. Overdose crisis

The term “overdose crisis” refers to a situation where there is a significant increase in drug overdoses, often leading to public health concerns and a need for intervention.

For example, “The country is facing an overdose crisis, particularly with opioids.”
A community organization might hold a meeting to address the overdose crisis and develop strategies for prevention and treatment.
In a news report, a journalist might say, “The city is grappling with an overdose crisis, with emergency services overwhelmed by overdose calls.”

31. Overdose education

Overdose education involves providing information and resources to individuals and communities about the risks associated with drug use and how to prevent overdoses.

For instance, “The school implemented an overdose education program to educate students about the dangers of substance abuse.”
A healthcare professional might conduct an overdose education session to inform patients about overdose prevention methods.
In a public health campaign, posters and brochures might be distributed to raise awareness and provide overdose education.

32. Overdose response

Overdose response refers to the immediate actions taken when someone experiences a drug overdose, including calling emergency services, administering first aid, and providing life-saving interventions.

For example, “His quick overdose response saved her life.”
A healthcare provider might train individuals on overdose response techniques, such as administering naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.
In a discussion about harm reduction, someone might emphasize the importance of overdose response strategies in preventing fatalities.

33. Overdose prevention program

An overdose prevention program is a program designed to prevent drug overdoses and provide support and resources to individuals at risk of overdosing. These programs often include education about overdose prevention, distribution of naloxone (a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose), and access to treatment and support services.

For example, an overdose prevention program might provide training on how to recognize the signs of an overdose and administer naloxone.
A community might establish an overdose prevention program to address the increasing rates of opioid overdoses in their area.
An individual who has previously experienced an overdose might participate in an overdose prevention program to learn strategies for preventing future overdoses.