Article contributed by Dr. Gary Brodeur, Warwick, RI

This phrase often conjures up the vision of a very seedy individual in a dark alley pushing drugs. You are no doubt aware that drug dealers can be found in many places: On the street corner, in nightclubs, and on the internet to name a few. Yet have you ever considered that you may be helping your kids get high without even knowing it? Well, the medicine cabinet in your bathroom is where some teenagers and children are now turning.

“Robo-tripping” is becoming a popular way to get a quick, cheap, hallucinogenic high. Robo-tripping is the slang term for intentionally overdosing on over-the-counter cold medicines such as Robitussin. More than 120 over-the-counter cold medicines contain DXM HBr (dextromethorphan hydrobro-mide), a cough suppressant that produces psyche-delic effects when taken in large doses. The favorites are Robitussin, NyQuil, Benadryl and Coricidin. “There are even websites out there that tell kids how to do this: How to get the pills and how to take enough pills,” said Dr. Drew Pinsky, an addiction expert.

In the minds of many children, this type of high can-not be all that bad since they receive the drug from their parents. Unaware of the potential dangers, kids take it upon themselves to experiment with the dose.

While DXM may be fatal when taken in large doses on its own, it is even more likely to be so when taken in combination with other drugs. This effect may not be intentional but can occur since many DXM cold medicines contain other drugs such as aceta-minophen, antihistamines (e.g., chlorpheniramine) and expectorants (e.g. guaifenesin).

Did you ever once think that as a parent you would condone the use of drugs that could be abused like this? Well it is never too late to educate your kids and change your approach to your family’s health care. Teach your children that all medications are drugs that can be harmful if taken improperly. More importantly, have enough confidence in your own body’s ability to heal itself and make drug free solu-tions a priority.

In most situations, our bodies have the ability to heal on their own if given the opportunity. A nutritious diet, daily exercise, plenty of rest and chiropractic care can all improve your body’s resistance. In fact, it is known scientifically that a cough is usually your body’s way of ridding itself of unwanted mucous. Keep your body healthy naturally and teach your kids to do the same. Enjoy the natural high that comes with a healthy lifestyle.

Start living healthier today!!!

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