The FDA is very concerned about the abuse of dextromethorphan, or DXM. This is a synthetically produced ingredient that is in many over the counter cold and cough remedies. There have been reported deaths of teenagers that are associated with the consumption of capsules that contain powdered DXM. Educating children about OTC drugs is very important.
Is this a New Trend?
DXM abuse is not new, youth in particular have been abusing this drug for many years. What’s new is that DXM is now available in a capsule. This capsule contains pure DXM and is encapsulated by a dealer who sells it on the streets.
Dextromethorphan has replaced codeine as the most widely used cough suppressant and is available in capsule, liquid gels, liquid and in tablets. Nearly half of all over the counter drugs contain DXM.
Dextromethorphan History
The FDA approved dextromethorphan in 1958 as a cough suppressant. This filled the need for a cough suppressant that lacked sedative side effects, physically addictive properties and very strong potential for abuse that its predecessor, codeine phosphate, contained. During the 1960s, dextromethorphan became available in tablet form and marketed as Romilar. In 1973, this product was removed from store shelves because of frequent abuse. It was replaced by cough syrup in an attempt to reduce abuse. In the early 1990s, gel capsules made their way into the market.
Dangerously Lethal
When taken in large doses this drug provides the user with euphoria, enhanced awareness but along with that is impaired judgment, loss of coordination, dizzy spells, nausea, panic attacks and possible addiction. Worst-case scenarios include brain damage, seizures, loss of consciousness and death. Tolerance and physical dependence may develop with long-term use. Withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, bone aches, muscle aches, insomnia, diarrhea, cold flashes and vomiting.
Street Names for DXM
There are many names given to DXM and the most common DXM street names include: Candy; C-C-C-; Dex; DM; Drex; Red Devils; Robo; Rojo; Skittles; Tussin; Velvet and Vitamin D.
Street names for DXM abuse are Dexing, Robotripping and Robodosing.
Signs of Abuse in Children
It’s important to always keep in mind that abuse can happen in all families. No one is immune from the possibilities of drug abuse, especially OTC drug abuse. Warning signs may include:
- OTC medications disappearing from the medicine cabinet.
- OTC drugs appearing in the child’s backpack.
- Children taking large amounts of cough or cold remedies.
- Taking OTC medications when there is nothing wrong.
- Failing grades, mood swings, changes in normal habits or appearance.
Keeping Children Safe
OTC drugs are easy to obtain. Some helpful hints to help keep the home safe are:
- Monitor the OTC drugs in the home.
- Avoid overstocking medications.
- Do not allow children to keep OTC drugs on them, in their room or in their backpack.
- Role model responsibility.
Talk to children about the potential dangers before it is too late.
Further Reading:
Kids Using Cough Syrup to Get High
Sources:
FDA Talk Paper: A Family Guide to Keeping Youth Mentally Healthy and Drug Free.
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