DXM

What is DXM?

Dextromethorphan (DXM) is a legal ingredient found in ‘over the counter’ cough syrups or cold and flu medications.

OTHER NAMES:

Dex, DXM, Robo, Skittles, Syrup, Triple-C, Vitamin D, Tussin.

UNDERSTANDING:

DXM causes ‘Woozy’ and detached feelings, a loss of motor control like alcohol, and hallucinations leading to good or bad trips. Large doses can exacerbate mental health problems.

Effects may be described as tripping, dexing or robotripping.

DXM is most likely to be ingested as medicines containing DXM, such as packets of cold and flu tablets or cough mixture. Talk amongst young people using code names as mentioned above may be an indicator.

SUPPORTING A YOUNG PERSON:

If a young person is using DXM it may be difficult to tell unless they are affected at the time and even then there a number of drugs that can have the same presentation. The after-effects vary for each individual also. Generally, DXM may impair a young person’s ability to focus and engage or cause them to be drowsy during class. The best immediate response to young people who have used DXM would be to take them to a quiet, comfortable area and have someone stay with them and reassure them.

Check out Harm Reduction Victoria fact sheet.