Dextromethorphan, commonly found in cough syrups, can interact dangerously with alcohol. While DXM is a prevalent component in many over-the-counter cold and cough remedies, mixing it with alcohol poses significant risks. Combining these substances not only heightens the chance of adverse side effects but can also extend the duration of your illness. It is crucial to understand the dangers associated with mixing DXM and alcohol before consuming them together.
What Is DXM?
Dextromethorphan (DXM) is an active compound in numerous cough, cold, and flu medications. Approved by the FDA in 1958, it remains a staple ingredient in over-the-counter cough remedies. DXM is believed to suppress the cough reflex by acting on the brain, although its exact mechanism remains unclear. Despite its structural resemblance to opioids, DXM targets different brain receptors. Nevertheless, approximately 1.5 million Americans misuse DXM and similar cough medications to achieve a high.
Side Effects of Dextromethorphan
When used as directed, DXM is generally well-tolerated, with only minor side effects such as:
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
However, misuse of DXM in high doses, often referred to as “Robo-tripping,” can lead to more severe side effects, including:
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- Excessive sweating
- Confusion
- Inappropriate laughter
- Heightened excitability
- Slurred speech
- Coordination difficulties
- Agitation
- Extreme tiredness
- Paranoia
- Euphoria
- Elevated blood pressure
- Vomiting
- Eye spasms
- Sensation of floating
- Altered hearing and touch
- Hallucinations
An overdose of DXM, especially when combined with other substances like alcohol, can be life-threatening. If you suspect someone has overdosed on DXM and other substances, immediately call 911.
Indicators of DXM Misuse
Recognizing DXM misuse is essential for timely intervention. Signs include:
- Exhibiting side effects associated with high doses of DXM
- Using DXM without a medical need
- Taking larger amounts than recommended
- Combining DXM with alcohol or other drugs
- Experiencing cravings for DXM
While DXM misuse alone is rarely fatal, combining it with other substances significantly increases the risk of severe and potentially deadly side effects.
Dangers of Combining DXM and Alcohol
Mixing DXM with alcohol is hazardous because both substances act on the central nervous system, amplifying side effects such as:
- Increased dizziness
- Enhanced drowsiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Impaired judgment and cognitive function
Additionally, combining alcohol with DXM heightens the risk of a fatal overdose. The severity of this risk varies based on the quantities consumed. Practices like Robotripping (intentionally taking excessive DXM) or combining DXM with alcohol to enhance the high are particularly dangerous. Each year, around 6,000 individuals in the U.S. visit emergency rooms due to the misuse of DXM with other substances like antihistamines, alcohol, acetaminophen, or pseudoephedrine.
Even when taken as directed, mixing DXM with alcohol can be harmful. Alcohol, being an immunosuppressant, can worsen and prolong illnesses, making recovery more difficult.
How Long to Wait Before Consuming Alcohol After Taking Cough Medicine
To prevent worsening your illness, it’s advisable to avoid alcohol while recovering from a cough or cold and until DXM has completely left your system. The half-life of DXM varies widely, ranging from 2.4 hours to over 19 hours, depending on individual metabolism. Generally, it takes about five half-lives for a drug to be fully eliminated from the body, meaning DXM could remain in your system for nearly four days.
Given the variability in how long DXM stays in the body, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before deciding to consume alcohol after taking cough medicine.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol and DXM Misuse
If you find yourself drinking while taking DXM or combining DXM with alcohol to achieve a high, quitting can feel daunting. However, support is available. At The Recovery Village Salem, our medical detox team can assist you in safely and comfortably reducing your dependence on alcohol and DXM. We offer a range of treatment options, including inpatient rehab, intensive outpatient programs, partial hospitalization, and aftercare services to support your long-term sobriety. Reach out to us today to begin your journey to recovery.
