DXM, CCC, and drug use in Tampa

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

By Sajid

DXM, CCC, and drug use in Tampa DXM, CCC, or Triple C’s drug abuse is on the rise in Tampa Bay. DXM stands for Dextromethorphan and CCC or Triple C’s is street lingo for Coricidin. Dextromethorphan is an ingredient contained in the medicine product ‘Coricidin HBP Cough and Cold’. Abuse is on the rise in Tampa Bay, as Coricidin is available over the counter and without a prescription. Other cold and cough medicines contain dextromethorphan as well; Robitussin is one brand that contains DXM. Taking Robitussin to get high is referred to as robotripping.

Many teens are choosing DXM and CCC as a drug of choice since it is available without a prescription. Since cold pills are taken in large quantities to get high or a buzz, many parents and doctors never realize that there was a drug abuse situation until it is too late. If taken in a fatal overdose, the situation may appear to be one of a suicide, due to the fact that many pills were taken. However, teens are abusing these medications as they would with other drugs.

Throughout Tampa, many pharmacies and grocery stores are aware of the problem with CCC and DXM. Some stores will limit the sales of these products to one per customer. Theft of these over the counter medications is on the rise, however. They are powerful stimulants and parents should be concerned when they suspect their children might be taking cold remedies to get high.

Abusing DXM, CCC, or Triple C’s may have similar symptoms to those of a drinking problem. Sometimes the pupils become dilated and the skin feels flushed. Other symptoms include trouble walking, feeling disoriented, sleepy or tired, lack of concentration and inability to focus, and feeling fear or paranoia.

Since cough and cold remedies contain multiple ingredients, taking them in large quantities pose serious health consequences. Some of the dangerous side effects associated with DXM include heart problems, liver failure, fevers, damage to the nervous system, erectile dysfunction, nystagmus (rapid movements of the eyes), frequent urination, high blood pressure, and developing psychosis or other mental disorders.

Treatment for DXM addiction might include the use of several medications to stabilize the heart, lower blood pressure, and prevent coma. Those taking large quantities of DXM are poisoning their body, and in an overdose situation, require immediate medical attention. DXM abuse is nothing to ignore. If you suspect your teen or preteen is abusing over the counter medications, seek help from a drug rehabilitation clinic immediately. If you think your child has overdosed on DXM, call 911 immediately.
source: http://www.examiner.com