Teens are increasingly abusing various over-the-counter (OTC) medications, which can have significant health consequences. These medications are often easily accessible and perceived as safe, leading to a misguided belief that misuse is low-risk.
This article will list some of the most common over-the-counter medications abused by teens, their effects, risks, and ways to prevent OTC drug addiction.
Why Teens Abuse OTC Medicines
Research indicates that the primary reasons teens may misuse OTC medications include a desire for cognitive or physical enhancement or self-medication for emotional distress. Certain demographic factors also appear to increase vulnerability to OTC misuse.
A common misconception also exists that non-prescription medications are safe. This belief can lead to a significant underestimation of the risks associated with misuse, as many young people fail to recognize the potential for harmful effects.
Peer influence plays a critical role in this behavior, pressuring teens to engage in OTC abuse to fit in with their social circles or to demonstrate their willingness to take risks. Older adolescents and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may be at heightened risk due to a combination of social and environmental influences that impact their attitudes towards substance use.
The developmental desire for autonomy, coupled with an inclination toward seeking new experiences, further contributes to their susceptibility to substance abuse.
For adolescents struggling with OTC abuse, programs like the teen outpatient treatment at New Chapter Youth Program provide essential support tailored to their specific needs. Our personalized approach to addiction treatment recognizes the unique challenges faced by today’s youth, including the pressures of social media, academic stress, and evolving family dynamics.
Most Commonly Abused OTC Medicines
Several over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are commonly misused by adolescents seeking psychoactive effects, cognitive enhancement, escape from reality, and other reasons. Among these are:
Dextromethorphan (DXM)
Dextromethorphan is a common ingredient in many cough and cold medicines. When taken at recommended doses, it is safe and effective for suppressing coughs. However, teens may consume large quantities to achieve dissociative and hallucinogenic effects, sometimes referred to as “robotripping” or “skittling.” High doses can cause confusion, impaired motor skills, hallucinations, psychosis, and even life-threatening complications such as respiratory depression and heart problems.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine found in allergy and sleep aids. Teens sometimes abuse it for its sedative and hallucinogenic properties. High doses can cause delirium, agitation, seizures, heart arrhythmias, and even coma or death. Recent social media trends, such as the “Benadryl Challenge,” instructing teens to film themselves taking large doses of Benadryl and subsequently tripping or hallucinating, have increased awareness of the dangers associated with misuse.
Pseudoephedrine
Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant found in many cold and allergy medications. It can be misused for its stimulant effects, leading to increased energy or euphoria. Abuse can result in high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, anxiety, and insomnia. On top of that, pseudoephedrine is sometimes used in the illicit manufacture of methamphetamine, leading to restricted sales in many areas.
Loperamide (Imodium)
Loperamide is an anti-diarrheal medication that, when taken in excessive amounts, can produce effects similar to opioids. Teens may misuse it to self-treat withdrawal symptoms or to achieve a high. High doses can cause serious heart problems, including arrhythmias and cardiac arrest, and have resulted in fatalities.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is widely used for pain relief and fever reduction and is present in many combination cold and flu remedies. Teens may unintentionally overdose by taking multiple products containing acetaminophen, leading to severe liver damage or failure. Overdose can be fatal, and symptoms may not appear until significant harm has occurred, making this a particularly dangerous form of misuse.
Laxatives and Diet Pills
Laxatives and diet pills are among the most commonly misused over-the-counter products by adolescents, particularly those struggling with body image concerns or eating disorders. Research indicates that nearly 1 in 10 teens worldwide have used non-prescribed weight-loss products, including laxatives and diet pills, at some point in their lives, with usage rates higher among girls than boys. These products are often marketed online and in stores as quick solutions for weight control, making them easily accessible to youth.
Caffeine-Containing Medications
Some OTC medicines contain caffeine, which is sometimes abused for its stimulating effects. Teens may take large amounts to stay awake or boost energy, but excessive use can lead to toxicity, causing symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, anxiety, insomnia, tremors, and, in severe cases, seizures.
Health Risks and Consequences
The misuse of these OTC medicines can result in a wide range of adverse health effects, from acute poisoning and organ damage to long-term psychological and physical consequences. Safe storage, proper disposal, and open communication can help reduce the risk of misuse and protect adolescent health.
The side effects of such abuse can range from mild to severe, including neurotoxicity, cardiovascular issues, and even hallucinations, depending on the substance and the dosage involved.
Understanding the appeal of these drugs and the resultant health risks is essential for effective prevention. Raising awareness among teens, parents, and educators about the dangers of OTC drug abuse is essential for prevention. Communities can implement strategies to mitigate these risks and protect youth from the potential outcomes of substance abuse.
Prevention and Education Strategies
Parents have a fundamental role in safeguarding their teens from potential OTC misuse.
To mitigate risks, parents should monitor and securely store all medications at home. Additionally, involvement with local schools to ensure the inclusion of OTC drug abuse prevention in health curricula can foster a more informed adolescent population.
Collaborations with pharmacists and healthcare professionals are also crucial, as they can provide both education and counseling to teens and their families regarding the risks of OTC drug misuse and reinforce safe usage practices.
Final Thoughts from New Chapter Youth Program
The misuse of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines by teens is a growing concern due to serious health risks like addiction, organ damage, and even death. Prevention requires education, open communication, proper monitoring, and teaching healthy coping skills. Family and community awareness efforts also play a key role.
At New Chapter Youth Program, we recognize the challenges that both teens and their families face when confronting drug addiction. Our comprehensive, evidence-based treatments in New Jersey include individual and group counseling, family therapy, and experiential approaches. This holistic care not only targets the disorder but also addresses any underlying mental health issues or trauma that may be driving substance use.
