Where Is DXM Found?
DXM is widely available and has replaced codeine as the most widely used cough suppressant in the United States. According to the National Youth Anti-Drug media campaign, over half of the OTC drugs on the market–more than 125 products–contain DXM. Most commonly, though, the source used for DXM abuse is “extra-strength” cough syrup, says the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), though capsules, liquid gel capsules, lozenges and tablet forms may also be used. (Capsules are becoming increasingly popular with teens, as they’re easier to ingest in large quantities than the liquid form.) Another “disturbing new trend, which involves the sale of pure DXM in powdered form … often encapsulated by the ‘dealer’ and offered for street use,” has also surfaced, according to the FDA. DXM is also sold, often in bulk “pure” powder form, over the Internet. “Parents need to remember that ruthless and dangerous individuals try to entice our children with risky products on the Internet. We need to
