Dangers of Dextromethorphan Abuse
Back to the document's frontpageAlthough a number of over the counter medications have abuse potential, Dextromethorphan containing medications are by far the most frequently abused; and they are a very easy source of a cheap and available high to many kids, and even adults.
Although Dextromethorphan is a very safe ingredient when consumed as directed in a cough or cold medication, when this drug is taken in massive quantities there are some very real dangers, including the possibility of a fatal overdose. At high doses, Dextromethorphan can induce heart palpitations, seizures, psychosis and even heart failure. Additionally, many of the over the counter products that contain Dextromethorphan also contain other active ingredients that are dangerous when consumed in larger than recommended dosages. Acetaminophen, while very safe in recommended levels, can induce acute and permanent liver failure when taken at high levels, and many cough and cold symptoms relief medications also contain significant amounts of acetaminophen.
Frequent Dextromethorphan abuse can cause anxiety, abnormal and aggressive behaviors, dizziness, headaches, irritability and a host of other symptoms.
