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Teenage OTC Drug Abuse
Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are medications that can be purchased without a prescription, either at a pharmacy or grocery store. OTCs are generally safe when used as recommended. They are less potent than other substances, but if misused, they can still lead to health consequences and addiction.
According to the CDC, rates of OTC drug abuse are actually higher among younger teens (4.4% of 8th graders vs 2.4% of 12th graders). Younger teens may abuse over-the-counter drugs due to curiosity, experimentation, and their easy availability. The most common OTC drug abuse by teens includes cough or cold medicines that often contain dextromethorphan (DXM). DXM in particular is linked to a significant number of teenage ER visits for drug poisoning. Teens may use DXM and a combination of other drugs, such as antihistamines, to create “lean”. This uses either prescription (codeine) or OTC cough syrup (DXM) to provide teens with intense, euphoric effects.
OTC drug abuse can cause chronic health problems such as memory loss, damage to the heart, and kidney failure. They can also increase the risk of mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, inability to focus, paranoia, delusions, or hallucinations.
At Lotus Behavioral Health, we understand the challenges of OTC abuse and help educate parents on effective prevention strategies. Throughout our treatment programs, teens have access to evidence-based therapies and therapeutic activities to reduce the triggers contributing to their substance abuse. Some of the therapies offered for teens in OTC abuse treatment include:
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Trauma-informed therapies
- Art and Music therapy
- Dance, movement, and fitness therapies
Commonly Abused OTC Drugs in Teens
- Cough medicines (DXM)
- Allergy medication (diphenhydramine)
- Cold medicines (pseudoephedrine)
- Motion sickness pills (dimenhydrinate)
- OTC sleeping pills
- Diet pills
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