Using data from poison-control centers,
researchers at the University
of California San Francisco
and elsewhere have found
that reported cases of cough syrup overdoses among minors ages 9 to 17
increased fifteen-fold over a five-year period. The highest number of
cases involved 15 and 16-year-olds. Dextromethorphan, or DXM, is the active ingredient in some of the most
popular nonprescription cough suppressants. It can produce euphoric highs and
intense hallucinations when taken in significantly higher doses than what's
recommended. Serious side effects include increased heart rate and blood
pressure, loss of muscle control, seizures and psychosis. Researchers blamed
the jump on easy access to information on the Internet about D-X-M -- which is
also known as Dex, Robo, Skittles, CCC and Triple C. Cough medicine is also
cheap, with one package producing a hallucinatory high similar to the effects
of PCP. Researchers say the most popular brand of choice for abuse is Coricidin
HBP Cough & Cold Tablets, an over-the-counter medication designed for
people with high blood pressure. The study was published in the Archives of
Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
