Together, we can put an end to teen over-the-counter (OTC) cough medicine abuse.
You know what dextromethorphan (DXM) is, that approximately 1 in 32 teens reports abusing (OTC) cough medicine containing DXM to get high, and teens who learn about the risks of drugs from their parents are 50% less likely to abuse drugs. Now we need your help to spread the word to other parents and people in your community to raise awareness about OTC cough medicine abuse. Whether it is talking to a friend or attending an event in your community, every little bit counts.
There are a lot of things you can do to spread awareness:
Steps You Can Take Right Now
Talk to your teen.
Teens listen, even if they act like they don’t. In fact, teens who learn about the risks of drugs from their parents are 50% less likely to use drugs. Parents have the power to ensure their teens know the truth.
Conversation StartersCheck your shelf.
Do you know how much OTC cough medicine is in your cabinet? Take inventory regularly so you can notice if large amounts go missing when no one is sick.
Learn moreShare resources with your community.
Preventing teen OTC cough medicine abuse takes a community of passionate and concerned individuals working together to tackle this serious problem.
Tools to Take ActionKeep up with the campaign.
Join us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest tips, news, and updates pertaining to raising teens and keeping them away from risky behaviors.
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Resources
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Preventing Cough Medicine Abuse: A Parent’s Guide
A helpful guide for parents featuring warning signs and prevention tips.
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List of DXM-Containing Products
More than 100 medicines contain DXM. This is a list of some of the most common ones.
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Check Your Shelf Regularly to Detect Medicine Abuse
Taking inventory of your medicine cabinet regularly will help you spot warning signs of medicine abuse.
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Have You Noticed This Icon at the Store?
Next time you’re shopping for over-the-counter cough medicine, see if you can spot this icon.
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Teen Slang Terms for OTC Cough Medicine Abuse
Some of the common slang terms teens use to discreetly talk about abusing over-the-counter cough medicine.
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How Much Cough Medicine Teens Consume to Get High
Putting into perspective the amount of cough medicine some teens consume to get high.
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Missing Cough Medicine is a Sign of Medicine Abuse
Missing cough medicine and empty bottles or packaging when no one is sick could be sign that your teen is abusing it.
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Look Closer for Signs of Medicine Abuse
Spot the differences between these scenes, one shows warning signs of medicine abuse.
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Cough Medicine Abuse Statistic Teen Social Graphic
The amount of teens who have abused OTC cough medicine to get high is higher than you may think.