While you are aware of many addictions like marijuana and alcohol, did you know that a growing number of 11-year-olds and up are finding new highs in your house?
Preteens and teenagers have found a new drug to help them get a quick high. It's not illegal to purchase. It is very easy to find. It may even be lurking in your medicine cabinet right now. They are using cough medicines for this very purpose. Now it is time that you know some facts.
What is cough medicine abuse?
It is simply using high doses of over-the-counter cough preparations for the goal of getting a quick high. The feeling is induced by dextromethorphan, an active ingredient found is most cough preparations. Dextromethorphan (DXM) can be found in cough syrups, gelcaps, and tablets. At this point in time, DXM is still a legal over-the-counter drug that can be purchased at drug stores, grocery stores, and major department stores, such as Target and Wal-Mart.
Is dextromethorphan dangerous?
While DXM is safe when taken according to the direction label on the product, it can be very dangerous in higher doses. When taken irresponsibly, it can cause symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, lightheadedness, blurred vision, slurred speech, rash, tremor, irritability, paranoia, sweating, nausea, vomiting, and other side effects. Side effects can be even worse when DXM is used in a preparation that contains additional agents to treat more than just cold symptoms.
Can someone die from an overdose of DXM?
Yes, at high enough doses, DXM alone can suppress the central nervous system. If that happens your brain can stop telling your lungs to breathe. Some drugs that people take to get the DXM high also include other ingredients which can interact in your body and have dangerous consequences. And remember, extremely high doses of DXM can induce a hallucinatory state which can lead to "accidents" that result in death. (DXM Stories.com - June 2007)
What are the common cough medicines containing DXM?
There are more than 100 different preparations containing DXM. Some of the more well-known brands include:
- Sudafed Cough & Cold
- NyQuil and DayQuil
- Robitussin
- Mucinex DM
- Vicks 44 Cough Relief
- Tylenol Cold
- Dimetapp DM
Are there street terms for DXM that I should be aware of?
Common slang that preteens and teenagers may use for DXM include:
- Skittles
- Red Devils
- Robos
- Triple C
- Syrup
What are some warning signs that my child may be using DXM?
- Sudden withdraw and isolation
- Loss of interest in friends and hobbies
- Change in eating patterns
- Empty cough medicine containers in the trash can
What can I do to prevent cough medicine abuse?
Parents must stay informed about what dangers are lurking. The number one advice is to talk with your preteens and teenagers about the risks of drug use. Open communication and a caring attitude go a long way in influencing your child that taking drugs is wrong and harmful.
More tips:
- Always know where your child is.
- Get to know all of your child's friends.
- Be a good role model.
To learn more about drug prevention visit Drug-Free America.
