A Deadly Game: Teen Abuse of Cough Syrup and Over-The-Counter Medications
by Linda Helper, RN
Teens looking for a cheap and easy high sometimes turn to over-the-counter medications such as cough syrup and cold pills. Even though cough syrup no longer contains codeine or alcohol, it does contain an equally dangerous drug: dextromethorphan or DXM.
About DXM
DXM, also known as “Dex,” is derived from morphine and can be found in more than 120 over-the-counter medications. In small doses, it safely and effectively suppresses cough and cold symptoms, but in high doses it can have powerful psychedelic effects. Teens sometimes refer to a cough syrup high as “dexing” or “robotripping.”
Side effects of DXM may include:
- Hallucinations
- Fever
- Loss of motor control
- Confusion
- Impaired judgment
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Paranoia
- Excessive sweating
- Slurred speech
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Irregular heart beat and high blood pressure
- Numbness
- Headache
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Brain damage
Why DXM?
Adolescents, particularly pre-teens, abuse cough syrup and over-the-counter medications because they are easy to find at the store or in the medicine cabinet and only cost a few dollars. Those who can’t stomach the taste of cough syrup find a similar high in cold pills containing DXM. Some teens amplify the high with alcohol or other drugs, with potentially deadly side effects.
Treating Teen Substance Abuse
Parents are in the best position to prevent and address over-the-counter medication abuse. Many teens underestimate the risks of cough syrup abuse because the drug can be legal and effective when used as recommended. By monitoring the contents of your medicine cabinet, limiting the number of medications containing DXM in your home and talking to your child about the dangers of cough syrup abuse, you can protect your child from this dangerous habit.
Teens who abuse over-the-counter medications may need professional help to overcome their addiction. Wilderness therapy programs, residential treatment programs and therapeutic boarding schools can help teens develop the skills they need to stay clean and sober for life.
