OTC Cough Syrup – DXM

Also known as;

Dex, DXM, Robo Trippin, Skittles, Syrup, Triple-C, Vitamin D, Tussin or Tussin Trippin

Dextromethorphan (DXM), a synthetic drug with effects similar to morphine, the FDA as a cough suppressant approved it in 1954. Manufacturers developed and began using it in cough medicine in the 1970s as a cough suppressant that would be less addictive and have less side effects then the narcotic codeine, which had been used as the active ingredient in cough syrup up to this time.

Poison control experts say the increase in abuse cases is 4 times higher now than in 2000, mostly school-aged youth and young adults. Intoxication comes from swallowing large doses of the cough syrup, known as “robo-dosing” or taking hands full of cough suppressant pills, sometimes called “skittles” because they look similar to a popular fruit flavored candy.

In the past, cough syrup was the most commonly abused form of the drug. Abusers drank large doses however; drinking large amounts of cough syrup induces vomiting. So, to achieve the wanted effect, the user must drink the product quickly enough to allow the body to absorb the DXM before they start throwing up. Now they have the Internet to not only buy DXM in pure powder form, but it also teaches them how to use and abuse it. Some of these Internet sites even have dosing calculators those coach abusers how much they’ll need to take for their weight to get the best buzz.

DXM is not illegal. The drug is available without a prescription because, when used properly, it has proven to be a safe and effective means of cough suppression. Even though the drug is not regulated as a prescription drug, or as a controlled substance, being intoxicated on ANY drug in a public place can subject a user to prosecution for disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, and similar violations.

Sense this type of drug is available to our children we as parents or care takers need to pay attention to our children surroundings. Listed below are several ways to help keep your children safe.
Talk to your child. Speak with your children often about the importance of carefully following directions on the labels of all OTC medications. Help them understand the dangers of abusing OTC cough and cold medications.

Take an inventory of all Over the Counter products kept in your home. Be aware of the products in your medicine cabinet, and ask questions if you notice that any products are used frequently or disappear, best of all keep All Medication in a locked cabinet.

Monitor your child’s Internet use. Unfortunately, there are Internet sites that sell dxm in a bulk powder form, which helps teens to share their experiences with other teens. These individual sites are not regulated so it becomes increasingly necessary that you are aware of where your child is getting information on the Internet.

Your child can benefit from the relief of cough, cold, and flu symptoms by taking “Over the Counter” cough and cold remedies according to the instructions on the products label. But be aware if your child is using cough and cold medications outside of cold and flu season or if he or she continues to self-medicate after symptoms of the cold or flu have ended.

DXM alone can suppress the central nervous system, which will make you stop breathing, if emergency medical help is not called in time this will result in death.  Some drugs that people take to get the DXM high also include other ingredients, which can interact in your body and have dangerous consequences. And remember, extremely high doses of DXM can induce a hallucinatory state which can lead to “accidents” that could result in injury or death.

If you think your child is using DXM or any other drug contact a Professional Drug and Alcohol Counselor immediately. If you put it off until tomorrow it may be too late.

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