What Kind of Drug Is It?

Dextromethorphan (DXM) is an ingredient in more than 100 over-the-counter (OTC) cold, flu, and cough remedies. It is used specifically to suppress coughs. The drug is widely used in OTC medications because, at normal dosages, it does not produce side effects in most people. Dextromethorphan is a synthetic drug, meaning that it is manufactured in a laboratory.

The chemical is derived from levomethorphan—a synthetic substance that mimics the behavior of OPIATES such as heroin, morphine, or codeine. In its pure form, levomethorphan shows many similarities to the opiates, including the potential for addiction. Separated from the levomethorphan, dextromethorphan loses its painkilling component and is also thought to be non-addicting.

Higher Doses and Dangerous Combinations

Because so many easily purchased products contain dextromethorphan, it can be obtained legally for abuse in higher doses. It is not a controlled substance, and no one needs...