DXM (dextromethorphan) is a cough suppressant found in a wide variety of over-the-counter cough and cold medications. It is available as a liquid, tablet, capsule, gel cap, and lozenge. It is legal, inexpensive, and readily available at your local drug store. When used as directed, it can help manage cough and cold symptoms. That's the good news.
The Dangers
The abuse of DXM has greatly increased over the past few years, usually by young people. The most common way DXM is abused is by drinking large amounts of cough syrup – at least four ounces (ten times the recommended amount for cough suppression). It must be swallowed quickly so the DXM can be absorbed by the body before vomiting occurs (as it will). DXM can also be taken in capsule form or by inhaling it as a powder. It is often used at parties and clubs.
DXM is referred to by users as Dex, DM, Drex, Robo, Skittles, Triple C, Red Devils, or Velvet. Thousands of young people have ended up in emergency rooms, and there have been several deaths directly attributed to the overuse of products containing DXM.
The Effects
Large quantities of DXM in the body can cause hallucinations similar to those of some illegal drugs such as PCP. Cognitive functioning and visual perceptions are altered. The effects can last up to six hours.
Users run the risk of high fever, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, headache, dizziness, numbness in the toes and fingers, passing out, seizures, brain damage, and even death.
What to Look For
Parents should be aware of large quantities of cough suppressants in the house, especially when there is no cold or cough to treat. DXM is available in more than 100 products with brand names like Vicks, Robitussin, and Coricidin. Any young person can legally buy products containing DXM. Talk with your children about the uses, abuses, and health risks of DXM. |
