DXM or Cough Medicine Abuse Teen Drug Abuse DXM or Cough Medicine Abuse

DXM, or dextromethorphan, is a common ingredient in cough and cold medicines Teens, however, have found another use for cough medicine -- getting high.

Shocking Facts A 2008 study found that one in 10 American teenagers has abused products with DXM to get high, making it more popular in that age group than cocaine, ecstasy, LSD, and meth.

Understanding DXM Abuse Dextromethorphan affects the brain, specifically the region that controls coughing. However, at high doses – as much as 10 to 50 times the suggested amount – DXM can cause hallucinatory and dissociative effects similar to those of PCP or ketamine (special K.)

DXM Abuse: Why Is It Popular? DXM is easy to get. DXM is cheap DXM seems safer DXM is popular Hard for the parents to detect

What Are the Risks? Impaired vision Sweating and fever Rapid breathing Increased heart rate and blood pressure Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea Slurred speech Impaired judgment and mental function Memory loss Rapid eye movements Hallucinations and dissociative effects Coma

How Is DXM Abuse Harming Teens?  Overdoses: High amounts can shut down the central nervous system. Toxins: Combination cold and flu drugs often contain cough suppressants, decongestants, antihistamines, and painkillers that can be quite toxic. Impairment. altered consciousness, impaired vision, and hallucinations can lead to irrational and dangerous behavior.