Signs and Symptoms of Codeine Cough Syrup Abuse

Recognize When a Loved One Is Abusing Cough Syrup

Some drugs are illegal and difficult to come by or expensive to buy illegally on the street. Other drugs, however, are much easier to obtain and may even be lurking in your medicine cabinet or hiding in plain sight somewhere in your home.

Even something as seemingly innocuous as cough syrup can be dangerous in the wrong hands, and it is essential to know the warning signs of codeine cough syrup abuse. If you have prescription cough syrup in your medicine cabinet, chances are good it contains codeine. This low-level opioid can induce euphoria in large doses and spark a troubling addiction. Even over-the-counter cough syrups can be abused, and that is why it is so important to learn to recognize when a loved one has been inappropriately using these common household medications.

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, call WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab today at 877.969.1993 to learn how we can help. 

About Cough Syrup Abuse

The statistics regarding cough syrup abuse are startling, and if you think it cannot happen to someone you know, you might want to think again. A recent survey of teenagers found that one in four admitted knowing someone who had abused either prescription or over-the-counter cough remedies to get high, and the actual number could be even higher.

The fact is kids and teens know about cough syrup abuse, and they may be looking at those bottles in the medicine cabinet with much different eyes than you do. If you have these kinds of medicines in your home, you need to know the warning signs and the terminology.

Street Names for Abused Cough Syrup

Like other commonly abused drugs, cough syrup goes by several different names, partly obscuring its usage, throwing others off the trail, and somewhat increasing the cachet and making its use look cool. No matter the reason, it is vital to keep your ears open and know what your kids are saying.

Some of the most common street names for cough syrup include:

• Robo
• Velvet
• Tussin
• Lean
• Triple C
• Sizzurp
• Purple drank
• Skittles

If you hear any of these terms used in your household or those you know, it is time to have some serious discussions. Cough syrup abuse is far from innocuous, and this kind of substance use can be quite dangerous.

Why Do People Abuse Cough Syrup

There are many reasons people would use cough syrup, starting with the fact that it is readily available, often in the home medicine cabinet. With a zero price tag, this product becomes quite enticing, especially if it contains psychoactive substances.

Cough syrup may look harmless, but many prescriptions and even some over the counter preparations contain drugs that can be abused, including:

• Codeine
• Dextromethorphan
• Loperamide

These drugs can have narcotic effects, especially when the cough medicine containing them is used to excess. Some people even mix different prescription and over-the-counter medications together to find a better high. This dangerous game can have dire consequences for young people and their families.

Signs of Cough Syrup Abuse

If you suspect that someone in your household has been experimenting with the narcotic effects of cough syrup or using this kind of medication to excess, it is essential to be on the lookout for the potential warning signs. Some of the symptoms of codeine cough syrup abuse can be subtle and easy to miss, but if you know what to look for, they will become much more apparent. You should reach out for help if you notice any of these signs and symptoms:

• Lack of energy
• Loss of coordination and motor control
• Stomach pain
• Slurred speech
• Visual changes
• Sweating

If you notice any of these signs of cough syrup abuse, it is vital to reach out for help as soon as possible. The staff at WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab can provide valuable information on how to help a friend or family member, so you can get them the treatment they need before the abuse has crossed the line into an even more dangerous addiction.

How to Help Someone Who Is Abusing Cough Syrup

If you suspect that someone you know has been abusing cough syrup, it is important to get help for them as soon as possible. Every day you wait is a wasted opportunity, so pick up the phone and give WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab a call today.

Our expert counselors can help you determine the best course of action, from confronting your son or daughter to developing a treatment plan that will get them back on track. The help you need is available at any of our Florida locations, so pick up the phone and give us a call today.

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.