Introduction #
Dextromethorphan (DXM) is a common ingredient in over-the-counter cough medicines like Robitussin and Triple C’s. While it’s effective at treating coughs when used correctly, DXM is often abused for its hallucinogenic and euphoric effects. The fact that it’s readily available in pharmacies makes it attractive for teens and young adults seeking a quick, cheap high. What starts as an innocent dose of cough syrup can quickly spiral into a pattern of abuse with serious health consequences.
Abusing DXM, especially in high doses, can cause dangerous side effects, from hallucinations to respiratory problems. The risks grow even higher when DXM is mixed with other substances like alcohol or marijuana. While many view DXM as “safe” because it’s legal and sold in pharmacies, the reality is that long-term misuse can lead to cognitive impairment, addiction, and even overdose. Understanding the dangers of DXM misuse is crucial for those who might unknowingly put themselves at risk or those trying to help loved ones avoid the dangers of addiction.
Key Takeaways #
- DXM is a common ingredient in over-the-counter cough medicines, but it is often abused for its hallucinogenic effects.
- Abusing high doses of DXM can cause serious short-term side effects like nausea, dizziness, hallucinations, and in severe cases, respiratory failure.
- Long-term misuse of DXM can lead to cognitive decline, emotional instability, and addiction.
- Combining DXM with other substances like alcohol or marijuana dramatically increases the risk of overdose and other life-threatening complications.
- While DXM is legal, its misuse has sparked growing concerns, especially among teens, leading to tighter restrictions on purchasing cough medicines in some areas.
What Is DXM? #
DXM, or dextromethorphan, is an active ingredient in many over-the-counter cough suppressants. DXM is found in products like Robitussin, Delsym, and Triple C’s (Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold). It suppresses the cough reflex in the brain, making it a highly effective remedy for temporary relief from coughing. While it’s safe when taken as directed for its intended medical purpose, DXM has gained a troubling reputation for being abused due to its mind-altering effects when taken in large doses.
DXM in Cough Medicines #
DXM is commonly found in many products, from cough syrups and lozenges to tablets and capsules. This wide availability makes it an easy target for misuse, especially since it doesn’t require a prescription. In some cases, people may not even realize they are abusing DXM because of its standard, everyday use as a cold medicine. However, at higher doses, DXM acts as a dissociative drug, causing feelings of detachment from one’s body and reality, which is what many people seek when misusing it.
DXM HBr and DXM Hydrobromide #
When you look at the packaging of most cough medicines containing DXM, you’ll often see the term DXM HBr, which stands for dextromethorphan hydrobromide. This is the most common form of DXM used in over-the-counter medications. The hydrobromide version of DXM allows the drug to be more easily absorbed by the body, which is why it’s preferred for cough medicines.
While most people use these products as directed, those looking to abuse DXM may ingest much higher doses than recommended, leading to dangerous effects. It’s essential to understand that the mechanism of action for DXM changes drastically when taken in higher quantities, shifting from a simple cough suppressant to a potent psychoactive drug.
How DXM Affects the Brain #
When taken in therapeutic doses, DXM affects the medulla oblongata, a part of the brain responsible for controlling the cough reflex. However, when taken in large amounts, DXM affects NMDA receptors in the brain, leading to dissociative and hallucinogenic effects. This is why high doses of DXM are often compared to drugs like ketamine or PCP.
In high quantities, DXM creates a sensation of being detached from reality, often referred to as “robotripping” due to the robotic-like sensations people experience. Users may feel as if they’re floating outside their bodies, hear distorted sounds, or see hallucinations. The high from DXM can last anywhere from a few hours to over six hours, depending on the dose and method of ingestion. The dissociative effects of DXM, while sought after by some, can also lead to confusion, paranoia, and dangerous behaviors during the experience.
DXM’s Dual Nature #
DXM is a common, everyday ingredient found in cough medicines, and when used as directed, it’s safe and effective. However, in high doses, it becomes a dangerous dissociative drug that can lead to severe mental and physical side effects. The ease of access to DXM products makes them a tempting target for misuse, especially for those looking for a cheap and legal way to get high. Understanding how DXM works in the brain helps shed light on why its abuse can be so dangerous and why it requires careful attention to dosage and usage.
Why People Abuse DXM #
DXM, while intended as a cough suppressant, has become famous for its hallucinogenic and euphoric effects when taken in high doses. The easy availability of DXM in products like Robitussin and Triple C’s has led to widespread abuse, particularly among teens and young adults looking for a cheap and accessible way to experience a high. But what exactly draws people to abuse DXM, and why has this seemingly harmless over-the-counter medication become a problem in households across the country?
Euphoric and Hallucinogenic Effects #
One of the primary reasons people abuse DXM is for its mind-altering effects. At high doses, DXM can induce a state of euphoria, a sense of detachment from reality, and vivid hallucinations. These effects, often compared to other dissociative drugs like ketamine or PCP, can vary based on the amount consumed and the individual’s tolerance. For many users, the appeal lies in the dissociative experience—where they feel like they are floating outside their body or experiencing life through a distorted lens.
The effects of DXM occur in plateaus, depending on the dosage:
- Low doses: Mild stimulation, slight euphoria, and possible lightheadedness.
- Moderate doses: Stronger euphoria, mild hallucinations, and difficulty with coordination or speech.
- High doses: Intense dissociation, full-blown hallucinations, and a significant detachment from reality. Users may feel disconnected from their bodies, hear distorted sounds, or experience time in unusual ways.
At higher doses, these experiences can be unpredictable, often resulting in panic, confusion, or even paranoia. Some users report a sensation of being trapped in their mind, unable to control their thoughts or actions, which can lead to dangerous situations, especially if they are in public or around others who aren’t aware of their drug use.
Recreational Use and Street Names #
DXM is often abused under various street names, the most common of which is “Triple C’s”, referring to Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold, a cough medicine that contains a high dose of DXM. Other slang names include Robo, Skittles, Dex, and Red Devils. These names highlight how normalized DXM abuse has become in certain social circles, particularly among young people.
Many teens and young adults turn to DXM because of its legal accessibility—it’s sold over the counter, making it far easier to obtain than illegal drugs. Some might start using DXM out of curiosity or because they’ve heard about it from friends, only to discover its dissociative effects after experimenting with higher doses. Unfortunately, this initial experimentation can quickly turn into frequent abuse as users chase the intense hallucinogenic effects.
The Appeal of Over-the-Counter Accessibility #
One of the most significant factors driving DXM abuse is its availability. Unlike other drugs, which require illegal transactions or prescriptions, DXM products can be purchased at nearly any pharmacy or grocery store. This accessibility is especially appealing to teens, who may not have access to illicit substances but can easily buy DXM cough syrup, tablets, or gel caps with minimal suspicion.
For some, the fact that DXM is legal and found in common cough medicines creates a false sense of security. They might think that because it’s sold over-the-counter, it can’t be as dangerous as illicit drugs. This misconception often leads users to take higher doses than recommended, putting themselves at risk for serious health complications. The legal status of DXM may make it seem “safe,” but abusing it can have devastating effects on both the mind and body.
DXM’s Popularity Among Teens #
Teens, in particular, are drawn to DXM for several reasons:
- Peer influence: Many teens hear about DXM from friends or online forums where it’s portrayed as an easy, fun way to experience a high.
- Curiosity: The allure of trying something new and legal can lead teens to experiment with DXM without fully understanding the risks involved.
- Availability: Since DXM is found in common household medications, many teens feel it’s easier to get away with using it compared to illegal drugs.
Unfortunately, DXM abuse among teens often goes unnoticed for a time because it’s not immediately associated with hard drugs or illicit behavior. Parents might not realize their child is abusing a legal substance like cough medicine until the signs of addiction or health issues become too obvious to ignore.
A Growing Trend with Dangerous Consequences #
The appeal of DXM abuse lies in its easily accessible, legal nature and its dissociative, mind-altering effects. Many users, especially teens, and young adults, turn to DXM out of curiosity or peer influence, only to find themselves hooked on the drug’s euphoric high. However, while it may seem like a “safer” option than illegal substances, abusing DXM carries significant risks that can have long-term impacts on both mental and physical health. The increasing trend of DXM misuse is a severe issue that requires greater awareness and understanding, particularly for those who may not realize the dangers lurking in their medicine cabinet.
DXM Effects: Short-Term and Long-Term #
Abusing DXM (dextromethorphan) for its hallucinogenic effects might seem harmless to some, especially given its over-the-counter availability. However, the reality is that both the short-term and long-term effects of DXM abuse can be dangerous and, in some cases, life-threatening. When taken in high doses, DXM impacts not only the brain but also vital systems in the body, creating a range of side effects that extend far beyond the temporary high that users seek.
Short-Term Side Effects #
The short-term effects of DXM abuse can range from mild discomfort to severe physical and psychological reactions, depending on the dose and the individual’s tolerance. The higher the dose, the more intense and unpredictable the side effects can become.
1. Nausea and Vomiting #
One of the most immediate effects of consuming high doses of DXM is nausea. Many users experience vomiting, especially when taking large amounts of DXM cough syrup. This can be due to both the high concentration of the drug and the various inactive ingredients in the medication, which the body struggles to process.
2. Dizziness and Disorientation #
DXM can cause users to feel dizzy and disoriented. This is especially true at higher doses when users struggle to coordinate movements or maintain balance. The disorientation can be so intense that it leads to confusion, leaving users unable to navigate their surroundings safely.
3. Hallucinations and Altered Perception #
The most sought-after effect of DXM abuse is its hallucinogenic properties. Users often experience vivid visual and auditory hallucinations, and their perception of time and space becomes distorted. These effects can be enjoyable for some, but they can also be frightening and cause panic or anxiety, especially if the hallucinations take a negative turn.
4. Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure #
At high doses, DXM acts as a stimulant, causing the user’s heart rate and blood pressure to increase. This effect can be dangerous for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or those who mix DXM with other substances like alcohol, which can further elevate these symptoms.
5. Poor Judgment and Risky Behavior #
One of the more dangerous short-term effects of DXM abuse is impaired judgment. Users under the influence of DXM may engage in risky behaviors they wouldn’t normally consider, such as driving while intoxicated, acting aggressively, or participating in dangerous physical activities, all of which increase the risk of accidents or injury.
DXM Overdose Risks #
Overdosing on DXM is a natural and serious risk, especially when users take far more than the recommended dose in pursuit of more substantial hallucinogenic effects. DXM overdose can result in life-threatening complications, including severe respiratory distress, seizures, and coma.
Signs of DXM Overdose #
- Severe confusion or inability to communicate.
- Extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness.
- Hallucinations that become overwhelming or terrifying.
- Rapid heart rate or chest pain.
- Seizures or twitching muscles.
- Slowed breathing, which can lead to respiratory failure in extreme cases.
If someone is showing signs of a DXM overdose, it’s critical to seek emergency medical help immediately. The combination of DXM’s stimulant and hallucinogenic effects can quickly become overwhelming, and without prompt treatment, the overdose could be fatal.
Long-Term Effects of DXM Abuse #
While some may view DXM as a short-term escape from reality, long-term abuse can lead to permanent physical and mental health issues. These effects accumulate over time, especially with frequent or heavy use, and can be challenging to reverse.
1. Cognitive Decline #
Long-term DXM abuse can lead to severe cognitive impairment. Users may experience problems with memory, focus, and decision-making. Over time, the brain’s ability to process information and respond to stimuli may be damaged, leading to difficulties in everyday tasks, work, and relationships.
2. Emotional Instability #
Prolonged DXM abuse can affect an individual’s emotional regulation. Users may experience mood swings, depression, or anxiety, even when they are not actively using the drug. These emotional issues can make maintaining relationships or functioning in social or professional settings difficult.
3. Dependence and Tolerance #
While DXM is not physically addictive in the same way as substances like opioids, users can develop a psychological dependence on the drug. Over time, users may find that they need higher doses of DXM to achieve the same euphoric or hallucinogenic effects, leading to tolerance. This can create a dangerous cycle of increasing consumption, which further escalates the risk of overdose and long-term damage to the brain and body.
4. Liver and Kidney Damage #
Many DXM products contain acetaminophen (Tylenol) in addition to dextromethorphan. Taking large doses of these products can lead to liver toxicity and kidney damage over time. Chronic overuse of acetaminophen is known to cause liver failure, which can be fatal if untreated.
5. Depression and Mental Health Issues #
Chronic DXM abuse can worsen or trigger mental health conditions, such as depression or psychosis. The dissociative effects of the drug can take a toll on an individual’s mental well-being, leading to persistent feelings of detachment, confusion, and hopelessness. In some cases, long-term use of DXM has been linked to drug-induced psychosis, where individuals lose touch with reality even when they are not actively using the drug.
Short-Term Escapes, Long-Term Consequences #
While the short-term high of DXM may offer an escape for users, the risks far outweigh the temporary benefits. The short-term effects can quickly spiral into dangerous situations like overdose or accidents. In contrast, the long-term effects of chronic abuse can lead to permanent damage to the brain, liver, and emotional well-being. DXM is a powerful drug, and its abuse should never be taken lightly. For those who regularly misuse DXM, the long-term consequences may only become apparent once significant damage has already been done, making early intervention critical.
The Risks of Combining DXM with Other Substances #
One of the most dangerous aspects of DXM abuse is when it is combined with other substances. Many users, particularly those looking to intensify their high, mix DXM with drugs like alcohol, marijuana, or even prescription medications. While DXM poses significant health risks, combining it with other substances can lead to deadly consequences. Mixing drugs often magnifies the effects of each substance, creating unpredictable reactions in the body that can lead to overdose, organ failure, and severe mental health issues.
Mixing DXM with Alcohol or Other Drugs #
Combining DXM with alcohol or other drugs is extremely risky. Both DXM and alcohol are central nervous system (CNS) depressants, meaning they slow down brain function and bodily processes, including breathing and heart rate. When used together, these depressants can create a synergistic effect where the overall impact on the body is greater than the sum of the two drugs alone. This can lead to:
- Severe respiratory depression: The body’s ability to regulate breathing is impaired, which can lead to slow or stopped breathing, resulting in suffocation or death.
- Extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness: The combined effects of DXM and alcohol can cause users to lose their balance, pass out, or fall into a deep stupor, increasing the risk of injury from accidents or falls.
- Dangerous behaviors: Impaired judgment from mixing DXM and alcohol often leads to risky behaviors like drunk driving, violence, or poor decision-making, all of which can lead to fatal accidents or legal troubles.
DXM is often abused in combination with marijuana, which can enhance the dissociative and hallucinogenic effects of DXM. However, mixing these substances can amplify confusion, paranoia, and anxiety, leading to a bad trip that may spiral into a full-blown panic attack or psychotic episode.
Other drugs, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or stimulants, can also interact with DXM in unpredictable ways. For example, mixing DXM with opioids (such as oxycodone or heroin) can severely slow down breathing and increase the risk of fatal overdose.
DXM and Pregnancy #
Using DXM during pregnancy poses a significant risk to both the mother and baby. While low doses of DXM in some over-the-counter cough medications may be considered safe when taken as directed, abusing DXM during pregnancy can have dangerous consequences. The long-term effects of DXM abuse on fetal development are not fully understood, but the risks are concerning.
Some potential risks of using DXM during pregnancy include:
- Developmental issues: Abuse of DXM during pregnancy could affect the baby’s brain development, leading to cognitive or developmental delays after birth.
- Preterm labor: High doses of DXM may trigger preterm contractions, leading to early delivery and the associated risks of premature birth.
- Low birth weight: Babies exposed to DXM abuse during pregnancy may be born with a low birth weight, which can cause additional health complications.
In addition to the risks posed by DXM itself, many DXM-containing products also include other active ingredients like acetaminophen, which can cause liver damage in both the mother and the baby when used in excessive amounts. Pregnant women should avoid abusing any over-the-counter medications, including those containing DXM, and always consult with a healthcare provider before using such products.
DXM and Mental Health #
For individuals with existing mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia, DXM abuse can worsen symptoms or even trigger new psychological issues. DXM’s hallucinogenic effects can lead to severe paranoia, delusions, or psychosis, especially when used in high doses or combined with other substances.
How DXM Affects Mental Health #
Long-term abuse of DXM can cause persistent changes in the brain’s chemistry, leading to:
- Increased anxiety: While some users may seek out DXM to escape from reality or numb emotional pain, frequent use can result in heightened anxiety or panic attacks. The dissociative effects of DXM can be disorienting, causing users to feel out of control, which only exacerbates anxiety.
- Depression: The emotional crash that follows a DXM high can lead to feelings of deep sadness or depression. Over time, these depressive episodes may become more frequent, leaving users struggling with chronic depression even when not actively using the drug.
- Psychosis: In extreme cases, DXM abuse can lead to drug-induced psychosis, where users experience hallucinations, delusions, or a complete break from reality. These episodes can be terrifying and may require hospitalization or long-term psychiatric care to manage.
Mixing DXM with other substances like alcohol or marijuana only heightens the risk of mental health deterioration, as these substances can further destabilize mood and perception.
A Dangerous Cocktail #
While DXM may seem harmless as an over-the-counter drug, combining it with other substances creates a volatile mix that can lead to serious health risks. Whether it’s alcohol, marijuana, or prescription medications, mixing DXM with other drugs significantly increases the chances of overdose, mental health crises, and long-term physical damage. For pregnant women, the risks are even higher, as DXM abuse can harm both mother and baby. In short, DXM abuse is dangerous on its own, but mixing it with other substances is a recipe for disaster that should be avoided at all costs.
Legal and Social Concerns Around DXM Abuse #
Although DXM is legal and commonly found in over-the-counter medications like cough syrups, its increasing abuse has raised significant legal and social concerns. Many people underestimate the dangers of DXM, thinking that it must be safe to use in any quantity because it is readily available without a prescription. However, the rising rates of misuse—especially among teens—have led to calls for greater regulation and awareness about the risks associated with DXM. Beyond the health consequences, DXM abuse can affect relationships, education, work, and even lead to legal trouble.
Legal Status of DXM #
DXM’s legal status is a key factor in why it is so frequently abused. As an active ingredient in many cough medicines, DXM can be purchased easily at any pharmacy, making it an accessible option for those looking for a quick high. However, this easy access does not mean DXM is without legal restrictions. In response to the growing trend of DXM misuse, some areas have implemented age restrictions and purchase limits to curb its abuse.
Age Restrictions and Purchase Limits #
Many U.S. states have enacted laws restricting the sale of DXM products to minors. These laws require buyers to be 18 or older to purchase over-the-counter cough medicines containing DXM. In addition, some retailers limit the amount of DXM-containing products that can be bought once to prevent stockpiling for abuse.
These regulations aim to reduce access to DXM among teens, who are among the most frequent abusers. While these restrictions have helped curb some misuse, DXM remains widely available and accessible to those who seek it.
Illicit Use and Legal Consequences #
Even though DXM is legal when used appropriately, abusing the drug can still have legal consequences. For example, in some cases, individuals caught using DXM recreationally, especially when underage, may face legal penalties such as fines, probation, or even arrest. additionally, if someone engages in dangerous behavior while under the influence of DXM, such as drunk driving, vandalism, or assault, the legal consequences can be much more severe.
Furthermore, in situations where DXM is combined with other substances or sold to others for recreational use, it may be treated similarly to the illegal distribution of controlled substances. The legal repercussions of DXM abuse can follow individuals for years, affecting their educational and employment opportunities.
Social Impacts of DXM Abuse #
Beyond the legal ramifications, DXM abuse has significant social impacts, particularly on teens and young adults. The dissociative effects of the drug can interfere with relationships, academic performance, and work responsibilities, leading to a decline in quality of life.
Impact on Relationships #
As individuals become more reliant on DXM for its hallucinogenic effects, their relationships with friends and family often suffer. The withdrawal or emotional detachment caused by DXM can lead to isolation from loved ones. In addition, users may become more secretive or defensive as they try to hide their drug use, which can create tension and mistrust within relationships.
Parents, in particular, may find it challenging to recognize the signs of DXM abuse because it involves a legal, over-the-counter medication. By the time the abuse is discovered, it may have already caused significant harm to the user’s social connections.
Academic and Work Challenges #
DXM abuse can also affect an individual’s ability to function in school or work. The cognitive impairments caused by long-term DXM use, such as difficulty concentrating or remembering information, can severely impact academic performance. Students may sometimes fail to meet academic expectations, leading to suspension, expulsion, or dropping out of school altogether.
In the workplace, DXM abuse can lead to missed shifts, poor job performance, or conflict with coworkers. The inability to focus or make sound decisions under the influence of DXM can result in job loss or disciplinary actions, further contributing to financial and social difficulties.
Increasing Awareness and Prevention Efforts #
In response to the rise of DXM abuse, public health campaigns and awareness programs have been launched to educate parents, teens, and communities about the dangers of DXM misuse. These efforts focus on teaching people how to recognize the signs of abuse and how to talk to their loved ones about the risks of over-the-counter medications.
Education in Schools and Communities #
Many schools have incorporated drug education programs that include information on over-the-counter medication abuse, with a specific focus on DXM. These programs aim to dispel the myth that legal substances like DXM are “safe” to abuse and help students understand the long-term consequences of misuse.
Parent Involvement #
Parents are encouraged to actively monitor the medications in their homes, including keeping track of cough medicines containing DXM. Educating parents on the signs of DXM abuse, such as empty cough syrup bottles or secretive behavior, can help catch the problem early before it escalates. Open communication between parents and teens about the dangers of drug misuse is essential for prevention.
Retailer Responsibility #
Some retailers have taken steps to reduce DXM abuse by voluntarily placing DXM-containing products behind the counter, requiring identification for purchase, or limiting the amount that can be bought in one transaction. These small measures make it harder for teens to access large quantities of DXM without raising suspicion.
Addressing the Legal and Social Consequences of DXM Abuse #
While DXM is a legal medication, its abuse poses severe legal and social consequences. Efforts to regulate its sale and educate the public on its risks are steps in the right direction, but the battle against DXM misuse is ongoing. The fact that DXM is widely available does not make it any less dangerous when misused, and those who abuse it can face long-term damage to their health, relationships, and prospects. As more attention is brought to the dangers of DXM abuse, communities, parents, and educators must work together to prevent its spread and protect those most vulnerable to its misuse.
Conclusion #
DXM abuse may seem harmless due to its legal status and over-the-counter availability, but the dangers are genuine. What starts as a curiosity or a way to experience a euphoric high can quickly escalate into a dangerous pattern of misuse, with severe short-term and long-term consequences. The dissociative and hallucinogenic effects of DXM can lead to cognitive impairment, emotional instability, and even life-threatening situations like overdose, especially when combined with other substances.
The social and legal consequences of DXM abuse cannot be overlooked. Relationships, academic performance, and employment can all suffer from prolonged misuse. Even though DXM is sold legally, abusing it can lead to serious health complications and legal trouble, especially for young people. The key to preventing DXM abuse lies in education, awareness, and early intervention. Parents, educators, and communities must continue to work together to combat the rising trend of DXM misuse and protect those who are most vulnerable.
FAQs About DMX Addiction & Abuse #
Can DXM be addictive? #
Yes, DXM can lead to psychological dependence, especially when it is abused regularly. While it does not cause the same physical addiction as opioids or alcohol, users can develop a craving for the hallucinogenic and dissociative effects, making it difficult to stop using the drug.
What is “robotripping”? #
Robotripping is a slang term for abusing high doses of DXM, particularly from cough syrups like Robitussin. The term refers to the robotic-like feelings and movements users experience when under the influence of DXM, combined with its dissociative and hallucinogenic effects.
How can I tell if someone is abusing DXM? #
Signs of DXM abuse include slurred speech, dizziness, confusion, and dilated pupils. You might also notice empty bottles of cough syrup, secretive behavior, and mood swings. In more severe cases, users may exhibit hallucinations, paranoia, or loss of coordination.
Is DXM overdose possible? #
Yes, DXM overdose is possible, especially at very high doses or when mixed with other substances like alcohol or opioids. Symptoms of overdose include confusion, seizures, extreme dizziness, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to coma or death.
Can you mix DXM with alcohol or marijuana? #
Mixing DXM with other substances like alcohol or marijuana is extremely dangerous. Combining these substances increases the risk of respiratory depression, heart problems, and extreme disorientation. These combinations can also heighten the hallucinogenic effects, leading to panic attacks, paranoia, or psychosis.
Is DXM safe to use during pregnancy? #
No, abusing DXM during pregnancy can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby. High doses of DXM may lead to complications such as developmental delays, low birth weight, or preterm labor. It is essential to consult a doctor before using any medications during pregnancy.
Can long-term DXM use affect mental health? #
Yes, long-term DXM abuse can severely impact mental health. Prolonged use can lead to anxiety, depression, memory loss, and even psychotic episodes. The dissociative nature of the drug can alter the brain’s chemistry over time, making it difficult to regulate emotions or function normally.
Are there legal restrictions on buying DXM? #
Some states and countries have imposed age restrictions or purchase limits on DXM-containing products. You must be 18 years old or older to buy cough medicines with DXM in many areas. These restrictions aim to reduce the likelihood of teens abusing the drug.
Why do teens abuse DXM more often than adults? #
Teens are likelier to abuse DXM because it is cheap, easy to access, and legal. Many teens believe that because DXM is found in common medications, it is less dangerous than other drugs. The hallucinogenic effects also make it appealing to teens who are curious or seeking new experiences.
How can I prevent DXM abuse in my household? #
To prevent DXM abuse, monitor your medicine cabinet and avoid keeping large quantities of cough syrups or tablets at home. If you suspect someone may be abusing DXM, talk to them openly about the dangers and consider locking up medications. Educating your family about the risks of over-the-counter drug abuse is critical to prevention.
Resources #
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2925345/
https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/DXM-2020.pdf
