We all might’ve heard the phrase “foaming at the mouth.” But in the medical world, it’s not just a figure of speech. It’s a symptom that shouldn’t be ignored. Seeing a white, bubbly, foam-like substance spreading around your mouth can be unsettling. Often making you think of seizures or poisoning.
But did you know drugs like opioids can also cause foaming at the mouth? Opioids are known for slowing our breathing. In cases of overdose, fluid can accumulate in the lungs (pulmonary edema), which may result in foaming at the mouth due to the mixing of saliva with air and fluid from the lungs. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate action. And if we highlight the severity of this drug. As per ADHS, opioid overdoses have led to 371 deaths in Arizona in 2024 among adults aged 25-34 alone.
It’s alarming, but understanding the problem helps. That’s why our licensed therapists at Nirvana Recovery have created this guide to clearly explain what opioids cause this symptom. We’ve also talked about practical prevention strategies and opioid addiction treatments, so you’re prepared and well-informed.
What Opioids Are Most Likely to Cause Foaming at the Mouth?
Below is a list of opioids that are most likely to cause this symptom, along with how they interact with the body, their common names, methods of consumption, and overdose thresholds.
1. Fentanyl
Interaction with the Body:
Fentanyl binds strongly to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and suppresses respiratory function rapidly. Its high potency increases the risk of respiratory collapse and lung fluid buildup.
Common Names:
China White, Dance Fever, or Apache.
Consumption Methods:
Injected, smoked, snorted, or taken as transdermal patches.
Overdose Quantity:
As little as 2 milligrams can be fatal for an average adult.
2. Heroin
Interaction with the Body:
Once heroin is ingested, it metabolizes into 6-monoacetylmorphine and then morphine. This causes the person’s breathing to slow down. Lowering the oxygen levels in the body. As a result, the lack of oxygen may result in a “foam cone” being expelled from both the mouth and nostrils.
Common Names:
Smack, H, Dope, Harry, or Horse.
Consumption Methods:
Injected, smoked, or snorted.
Overdose Quantity:
Approximately 30 mg, depending on the type, purity, and user tolerance.
3. Carfentanil
Interaction with the Body:
A synthetic opioid which is 100 times more potent than fentanyl. It overactivates the MOR. Which results in serious breathing suppression.
Common Names:
Elephant Tranquilizer.
Consumption Methods:
Often mixed with heroin or fentanyl, snorted or injected.
Overdose Quantity:
As little as 2 milligrams can be lethal. Depending on how it’s taken and other health-related factors.
4. Methadone
Interaction with the Body:
Methadone has a long half-life (24–36 hours or longer). And if overdosed, it can lead to cumulative respiratory depression. This results in pulmonary edema (which is an uncommon complication).
Common Names:
Dollies or Fizzies.
Consumption Methods:
Taken orally as a liquid (via injection) or pill.
Overdose Quantity:
50 milligrams in non-tolerant individuals.
5. Oxycodone
Interaction with the Body:
Oxycodone is a central nervous system depressant. And if overdosed, it can lead to respiratory depression.
Common Names:
Oxy, Hillbilly Heroin, or Percs.
Consumption Methods:
Swallowed as pills or crushed and snorted/injected.
Overdose Quantity:
Administering a single dose above 40 mg or daily doses exceeding 80 mg can lead to fatal respiratory depression.
6. Hydrocodone
Interaction with the Body:
It slows breathing. If overdosed, it causes noncardiogenic pulmonary edema. Leading to foaming in the mouth.
Common Names:
Vic, Watson-387, or fluff.
Consumption Methods:
Taken orally as tablets.
Overdose Quantity:
Dosage above 50 mg.
7. Morphine
Interaction with the Body:
When too much morphine is consumed, it binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brainstem. Hindering the brain’s respiratory drive. This can lead to shallow or slowed breathing. Over time, respiratory depression may worsen and cause pulmonary edema. Leading to the foam around the mouth.
Common Names:
M, Miss Emma, or Morph.
Consumption Methods:
Injected, taken orally as tablets, syrup, or smoked.
Overdose Quantity:
If the daily dosage of oral morphine exceeds 90 mg.
8. Tramadol
Interaction with the Body:
Like other opioids, tramadol carries the potential for tolerance, dependence, and misuse. When taken in larger doses or combined with other opioid medications. It increases the risk of overdose and respiratory depression.
Common Names:
Tram or Ultram.
Consumption Methods:
Taken orally as tablets or capsules.
Overdose Quantity:
Over 500 milligrams can result in severe toxicity.
What to Do When You or Your Loved One is Foaming at the Mouth
Foaming at the mouth is a clear indicator of a medical emergency. And if caused by an opioid overdose, your immediate response can significantly impact the outcome.
Step-by-Step Guide to Handle the Emergency
Ensure the Environment Is Safe:
If the person is seizing or unconscious, first ensure their surroundings are free of hazards (e.g., sharp objects, furniture edges, or traffic).
Do not try to restrain them during a seizure. This can cause further injury.
Turn Them on Their Side:
The recovery position helps prevent choking by keeping their airway clear if they vomit or have excessive saliva.
Avoid putting anything in their mouth, as it can block the airway or cause choking.
Call 911 Immediately:
When speaking to the dispatcher, describe their symptoms, whether you suspect an opioid overdose and any actions you’ve already taken.
Administer Narcan if Opioid Overdose Is Suspected:
If available, use Narcan (naloxone) as directed on the device. Narcan works by rapidly reversing the effects of opioids.
It helps restore normal breathing and brain function by blocking opioid receptors in the brain.
You may need to repeat the dose every 2-3 minutes if symptoms continue until emergency medical help arrives.
And little do you know, Narcan is available without a prescription in Arizona. Pharmacies sell it over the counter. With costs varying based on your insurance coverage. Also, programs like the Naloxone Leave Behind Program. Run by the ADHS, provides free naloxone to first responders. These efforts ensure emergency personnel can save lives from opioid overdose. While also guiding individuals like you toward recovery resources.
Note: While Narcan can quickly counteract the effects of an opioid overdose, it is not a cure. Its effects wear off, and medical intervention is necessary to address lingering risks and safeguard the person’s well-being.
Treatment Options for Foaming at the Mouth Due to Opioids?
Foaming at the mouth is a symptom that shows up in cases of opioid overdose (which can happen for various reasons). And to treat it properly, we must identify and address the cause. Now, if we talk about its short-term treatment solution, Narcan works fast to reverse opioid overdose.
But for the long haul, opioid addiction treatment is the best way to prevent future overdoses. At Nirvana Recovery, we don’t just address the symptoms. We work with you for complete recovery from opioid addiction.
So, let’s take a look at the different multi-level care systems and treatment approaches that are used to manage and prevent opioid overdoses so that symptoms like foaming at the mouth can be eradicated.
Medical Detoxification
If you’ve been using opioids for an extended period, your body develops a physical dependence. And stopping suddenly or even reducing your dose (on your own) can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
That’s why medical detox is imperative. Detox is the medical process of safely removing opioids from your system while managing the withdrawal effects.
Now, how long detox takes can vary, with the process lasting anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Factors like which opioid it is. How long it’s been used and whether other substances have been involved all influence this timeline.
And our medical detox program provides you with the exact timeline. Ensuring your safety and comfort throughout. With the use of approved medications like buprenorphine and methadone, we help you manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
Note: While opioid withdrawal symptoms can be unpleasant, it is not typically life-threatening.
Residential Inpatient Rehab
After being detoxed, the residential treatment program is the next step for treating opioid addiction. Where you receive 24/7 support. That blends counseling, proven therapies (CBT, DBT, EMDR, MT), MAT services, and holistic approaches.
This well-structured environment lets you concentrate on addressing the root causes of your opioid addiction. While also helping you build vital coping skills.
Without the distractions of the outside world, we help you lay the groundwork for lasting recovery and a life free from opioid overdose. Preventing you from foaming at the mouth.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) or Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Once you’ve completed inpatient/residential care, the next step might be a move to a PHP or IOP, which is decided after having a discussion with a therapist based on your opioid addiction severity.
These step-down level of care programs involve the same therapeutic methods used in inpatient care. But with less intensity and fewer hours of commitment. Plus, the benefit of not having to stay overnight at the treatment center.
For some of you who need to continue working or handling other daily responsibilities. IOP or PHP may be the ideal solution. But for others, it may not.
Our team will work closely with you to assess your condition and help you choose the right level of care. So that you can successfully overcome your opioid addiction along with the white, foam-like substance spreading around your mouth.
Let Nirvana Recovery Help You Overcome Opioid Overdose
Opioid use can be extremely dangerous, with potentially life-threatening consequences. And foaming of the mouth is just one symptom of how devastating this class of drugs can be. If you’re reading this right now, you may already know how hard it is to overcome opioid addiction.
But recovery isn’t a pipe dream. It’s possible. Now, the thought of seeking opioid addiction treatment can often be met with fear, denial, or shame. We get it. It’s not an easy decision to make. However, at Nirvana Recovery (an ADHS-licensed facility), we’ve helped individuals like you face these same challenges.
We provide a multi-level care system, as explained above, with the inclusion of proven therapies and holistic care. Our team of therapists is dedicated to providing you with the personalized support and care you need every step of the way.
So, if you’re ready to take the first step toward freedom from opioid addiction, give us a call for a free consultation at (480) 764-2335. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your queries.
FAQs
What drug can make your mouth foam?
Overdosing drugs like fentanyl (which is an opioid) can lead to foaming at the mouth.
If you or your loved one shows signs of foaming at the mouth or other symptoms of an opioid overdose, it's crucial to get professional medical help right away. Quick intervention is key to saving lives.
What does foaming at the mouth indicate?
Foaming at the mouth is often linked to issues in the central nervous system. When saliva spills from the mouth unintentionally, it may be linked to a range of severe causes.
One such cause is the use of drugs like opioids or stimulants. Being able to recognize the seriousness of this symptom can help those around the individual take the appropriate steps toward emergency care. Potentially saving lives in the process.
Why do people foam at the mouth when overdosing on an opioid?
When you overdose on an opioid, it also causes pulmonary edema. A condition where fluid is buildup in your lungs. This fluid buildup can lead to foaming at the mouth.
What drug makes your spit foamy?
Drugs like heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, or hallucinogens can make your spit foamy. However, foamy spit can also originate from medical conditions like seizures, pulmonary edema, rabies, or heart failure.
What are the medical conditions that can cause foaming at the mouth?
Severe asthma, heart failure, seizures, pulmonary edema, rabies, and salivary gland disorders can cause foaming at the mouth.
Which stimulant drugs cause foaming at the mouth?
Stimulants like amphetamines, cocaine, and methamphetamine cause foaming at the mouth.
What toxic substances can cause foaming at the mouth?
Industrial chemicals, bleach, pesticides, toxic plants or mushrooms, and ammonia-based cleaners can cause foaming at the mouth.
What Drug Causes Foaming at the Mouth? Causes, Actions, and Recovery Explained
Published On February 17, 2025
Table of Contents
We all might’ve heard the phrase “foaming at the mouth.” But in the medical world, it’s not just a figure of speech. It’s a symptom that shouldn’t be ignored. Seeing a white, bubbly, foam-like substance spreading around your mouth can be unsettling. Often making you think of seizures or poisoning.
But did you know drugs like opioids can also cause foaming at the mouth? Opioids are known for slowing our breathing. In cases of overdose, fluid can accumulate in the lungs (pulmonary edema), which may result in foaming at the mouth due to the mixing of saliva with air and fluid from the lungs. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate action. And if we highlight the severity of this drug. As per ADHS, opioid overdoses have led to 371 deaths in Arizona in 2024 among adults aged 25-34 alone.
It’s alarming, but understanding the problem helps. That’s why our licensed therapists at Nirvana Recovery have created this guide to clearly explain what opioids cause this symptom. We’ve also talked about practical prevention strategies and opioid addiction treatments, so you’re prepared and well-informed.
What Opioids Are Most Likely to Cause Foaming at the Mouth?
Below is a list of opioids that are most likely to cause this symptom, along with how they interact with the body, their common names, methods of consumption, and overdose thresholds.
1. Fentanyl
2. Heroin
3. Carfentanil
4. Methadone
5. Oxycodone
6. Hydrocodone
7. Morphine
8. Tramadol
What to Do When You or Your Loved One is Foaming at the Mouth
Foaming at the mouth is a clear indicator of a medical emergency. And if caused by an opioid overdose, your immediate response can significantly impact the outcome.
Step-by-Step Guide to Handle the Emergency
And little do you know, Narcan is available without a prescription in Arizona. Pharmacies sell it over the counter. With costs varying based on your insurance coverage. Also, programs like the Naloxone Leave Behind Program. Run by the ADHS, provides free naloxone to first responders. These efforts ensure emergency personnel can save lives from opioid overdose. While also guiding individuals like you toward recovery resources.
Note: While Narcan can quickly counteract the effects of an opioid overdose, it is not a cure. Its effects wear off, and medical intervention is necessary to address lingering risks and safeguard the person’s well-being.
Treatment Options for Foaming at the Mouth Due to Opioids?
Foaming at the mouth is a symptom that shows up in cases of opioid overdose (which can happen for various reasons). And to treat it properly, we must identify and address the cause. Now, if we talk about its short-term treatment solution, Narcan works fast to reverse opioid overdose.
But for the long haul, opioid addiction treatment is the best way to prevent future overdoses. At Nirvana Recovery, we don’t just address the symptoms. We work with you for complete recovery from opioid addiction. So, let’s take a look at the different multi-level care systems and treatment approaches that are used to manage and prevent opioid overdoses so that symptoms like foaming at the mouth can be eradicated.
Medical Detoxification
Note: While opioid withdrawal symptoms can be unpleasant, it is not typically life-threatening.
Residential Inpatient Rehab
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) or Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our team will work closely with you to assess your condition and help you choose the right level of care. So that you can successfully overcome your opioid addiction along with the white, foam-like substance spreading around your mouth.
Let Nirvana Recovery Help You Overcome Opioid Overdose
Opioid use can be extremely dangerous, with potentially life-threatening consequences. And foaming of the mouth is just one symptom of how devastating this class of drugs can be. If you’re reading this right now, you may already know how hard it is to overcome opioid addiction.
But recovery isn’t a pipe dream. It’s possible. Now, the thought of seeking opioid addiction treatment can often be met with fear, denial, or shame. We get it. It’s not an easy decision to make. However, at Nirvana Recovery (an ADHS-licensed facility), we’ve helped individuals like you face these same challenges.
We provide a multi-level care system, as explained above, with the inclusion of proven therapies and holistic care. Our team of therapists is dedicated to providing you with the personalized support and care you need every step of the way.
So, if you’re ready to take the first step toward freedom from opioid addiction, give us a call for a free consultation at (480) 764-2335. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your queries.
FAQs