In symptomatic suspected opioid overdose in adults, respirations are less than how many breaths per minute?

• A. 20 breaths per minute
• B. 12 breaths per minute
• C. 16 breaths per minute
• D. 8 breaths per minute

Answer: (B)

Opioids blunt the brain’s drive to breathe, so breathing often slows significantly in overdose. In adults, a normal resting rate is about 12 to 20 breaths per minute. When the rate falls below 12 breaths per minute, it signals clinically important respiratory depression from suspected opioid overdose and triggers the recommended intervention (such as naloxone and supportive care). The other rates are either within normal limits or reflect a more severe depression, but the threshold used for action in this context is under 12 breaths per minute.