An overdose can occur if you take too much of an opioid or mix it with other addictive substances. Any opioid, either prescription or nonprescription, can lead to an overdose. What Is an Accidental Drug Overdose? The cause of a drug overdose is either by accidental overuse or by intentional misuse. Accidental overdoses result from either a young child or an adult with impaired mental abilities swallowing a medication left within their grasp. When a person dies because of a drug overdose, the medical examiner or coroner records on the death certificate whether the overdose was intentional (purposely self-inflicted, as in cases of suicide) or unintentional (accidental). Gain a comprehensive understanding of accidental drug overdoses. Learn their nature, causes, how to recognize them, and essential safety measures. Read on to learn about the causes and signs of an accidental overdose, how to prevent an overdose, and what to do if you witness one. What drugs or substances can cause an accidental overdose? View comprehensive data on unintentional and undetermined intent drug overdose deaths. Drug overdose was the leading cause of injury death in 2013. Among people 25 to 64 years old, drug overdose caused more deaths than motor vehicle traffic crashes. Accidental Medication Overdose—ER or Not? You took too much medication—or someone you love might have—and now you are not sure what to do. Some overdoses can seem mild at first but quickly turn dangerous. Find out what accidental drug overdoses are, how they occur, and some factors that might make you more likely to suffer an overdose. What is an Accidental Overdose? Most cases of drug overdose that are not fatal are considered accidental overdoses unless the person was attempting suicide. When a person dies from an overdose the medical examiner will need to determine whether the overdose was intentional or unintentional.