A report in the December issue of Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine reports that abuse of dextromethorphan, a drug commonly found in cold medicine, increased 10-fold from 1999 to 2004.

"Since the late 1990's, dextromethorphan abuse has increased among adolescents, in part because the drug is easily accessible and is perceived to be safe."

Severe side effects are reported with high doses of the drug, including high blood pressure, agitation, loss of muscle control, and psychosis. The increased use is mainly attributed to the fact that cold medicines containing the drug are sold over the counter. Read more at ScienceDaily.com.

Posted By: Lori S