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Millions Get High on Cold Drugs

12-year-olds abuse over-the-counter medicines

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted Jan 10, 2008 4:05 AM CST

(Newser) – More than 3 million Americans, some as young as 12, have used over-the-counter cough and cold medicines to induce hallucinations, out-of-body experiences and other effects, a US government survey has found. The study uncovered high levels of abuse of 140 drugs containing the cough suppressant DXM, reports MSNBC.

The survey, conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, "tells me that parents need to be very concerned about the over-the-counter medicines they have in their medicine cabinet,” said a director of the agency's Center for Substance Abuse Treatment.

A government survey says millions use over the counter cold and cough remedies to get high.
A government survey says millions use over the counter cold and cough remedies to get high.   (KRT Photos)
A government survey says millions use over the counter cold and cough remedies to get high.
A government survey says millions use over the counter cold and cough remedies to get high.   ((c) PinkMoose)
A government survey says millions use over the counter cold and cough remedies, including NyQuil, to get high.
A government survey says millions use over the counter cold and cough remedies, including NyQuil, to get high.   ((c) paulshannon)
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