Cough Syrup is a staple in anyone’s medicine cabinet. It is the go to over-the-counter medicine for a stubborn cold or cough. It is also very easy to obtain because it is available at almost any drug store or supermarket.

Young adults will try any substance to get high, including cough syrup. Many brands of cough syrup contain ingredients that are mind-altering.  A common ingredient that does this is dextromethorphan (DXM). When taken in high dosages, this ingredient can cause hallucinations. It can also produce a euphoria effect, making the abuser feel light. Because it takes more than one dose of cough syrup with DXM to feel the high, users are often drinking whole bottles to get a buzz.

Taking cough syrup, even in higher than recommend dosages, may sound harmless and less harsh than abusing other drugs, but it can lead to addiction and many other negative health effects, like slowing down the central nervous system. Other side effects include increased blood pressure, nausea, loss of coordination, and lack of oxygen to the brain. These side effects are very dangerous and should not be taken lightly.

According to NIDA, up to 5 percent of children from 13-18 abuse cough syrup. It is recommended to keep your cough syrup locked away, out of reach of children. Convenience stores are also required to check ID’s for some cough syrups, ensuring the buyer is over 18 years of age.