Learn How DXM is Being Used as a Recreational Drug

DXM stands for dextromethorphan and is an ingredient found in some of the over-the counter cold and cough medications. Teenagers today are buying these cough syrups for reasons other than having a cold and cough.

DXM is a synthetic narcotic found in cold and cough medications. If taken in large dosages, this medication can cause hallucinations and out-of-body experiences similar to PCP. Many teenagers are abusing this drug because it is easy to acquire and gives them a sense of euphoria. Not only is this medicine available at your local drug store but according to the DEA Diversion Control Program, it can also be purchased online in a powder form. Teens have no idea of the serious consequences that can occur when taking too much of any medication that contains DXM.

DXM may cause physical addiction if taken for an extended period of time. A person’s tolerance level may also increase and more of the medicine will need to be taken to achieve the desired effects. Teenagers have admitted to drinking up to 4 bottles a day of any cough syrup containing DXM. The results of ingesting such a large amount of any of these medications can be devastatingly harmful. Brain damage, coma, and even death can result from taking excessive amounts of it. Teenagers will use other drugs with it such as marijuana, ecstasy, or alcohol which only increases the dangerous physiological effects. DXM is not the only ingredient in these syrups that can cause severe health problems. These cough and cold syrups also contain other drugs such as acetaminophen which can be harmful to your liver if taken in large quantities.

With over 125 different products containing this active ingredient it is not difficult for teenagers to find what they want. They may even be able to find the cough and cold syrup they are looking for right in your very own medicine cabinet. Today is the day to check all of your medications and then sit down and talk to your teenager about the devastating affects that consuming DXM products can cause. If you talk, they will listen. Now that you are armed with information about DXM you will probably surprise your teenager. They probably did not think that you would know that something as simple as a cough and cold syrup that you would usually use on a sick family member could turn out to be an addicting and harmful drug being abused by many teenagers today.

When you take your next trip to the pharmacy for cold or cough medication, be sure to read the labels carefully. Dextromethorphan-containing medications are usually labeled “DX” or “Maximum Strength”. If you are still unsure, read the active ingredients and also the inactive ingredients as well. This way you will be positive that you are not bringing home a medication that can be tempting for others to use as a recreational drug for a good time…a good time that could kill them.