Danger In Our Own Home

Several over the counter medications are being used by teens to get high, causing some serious problems. One of these is “DXM”(dextromethorphan), an ingredient found in several cough medications. This chemical compound is found in many types of readily available cold medication, including Tylenol Cold, Triaminic cough syrups, and Sudafed cough products. It is inexpensive and easily available. This substance has been abused for several decades, but recently has been promoted over the Internet, with advice on how to “safely get high”. There are lists of all the products with DXM in it, products that are “safer” to use, and how much of those to use. (This site is worth visiting to see what is out there and accessible to youth.) DXM is also now sold in bulk powder over the Internet as well. Powder is popular because one can take more and it is easier to ingest. A 2004 research study by Partnership for a Drug Free America found 9% of teens are trying DXM.

Other commonly used substances are inhalants. In 2003, it was found that 1 out of 4 sixth and eighth graders had tried an inhalant. Inhalants can be any household product which the adolescent can inhale the gases used for propellant. These can include computer gas duster, hair spray, paint, and whipped cream as well as nail polish and gasoline. The greatest concern regarding these substances is that 42% of deaths connected to inhalants are first-time users. Inhalants can cause heart arrhythmia, and if the adolescent is fighting, scared or anxious it can lead to a heart attack. (This is due to the associated adrenalin production.)

Signs of DXM or inhalant abuse are similar to those of other drugs, i.e. mood swings, changes in eating or other normal behavior, problems with school, and changes in friends. Other signs particular to DXM include teens continuing to take medication even if they are not ill, or medication missing from your cabinet. Inhalant abuse can lead to irritated or glazed eyes, dilated pupils, blisters or soreness around the nose, mouth, or lips, or weight loss.

All of these products pose a health risk to our children. But we should be asking why does the government still allow these products to be sold? With the known risks and deaths that they cause wouldn't you think that they would be taken off the market? Or could the government be leaving them on the market for a reason? Numbing the minds of children growing up today. Numbed minds are easier to control!