Over The Counter Medicine That Gets You High
Over the counter (OTC) medicines are easily accessible to everyone and can be found in most drugstores, supermarkets, and convenience stores. They are meant to treat minor ailments and symptoms such as headaches, fever, allergies, and pain. However, some people misuse and abuse these OTC medicines for recreational purposes, which can be very dangerous and harmful to their health.
What are OTC medicines?
OTC medicines are drugs that can be bought without a prescription from a doctor. They are usually used to treat minor illnesses and symptoms such as colds, coughs, flu, allergies, pain, and fever. They are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are considered safe if used as directed. However, they can cause serious harm if misused or abused.
What are the dangers of misusing OTC medicines?
Misusing OTC medicines can have serious consequences on a person's health and well-being. Some of the dangers of misusing OTC medicines include:
- Drug addiction and dependence
- Damage to vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, and heart
- Seizures and convulsions
- Coma and death
OTC medicines can also interact with other drugs and medications, which can increase the risk of adverse reactions and side effects. It is important to read and follow the instructions on the label and to consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns.
What OTC medicines can get you high?
Some OTC medicines can get you high if misused or abused. These medicines contain active ingredients that can affect the brain and central nervous system, causing feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and altered perception. The following are some of the most commonly misused OTC medicines:
Cough and cold medicines
Cough and cold medicines, also known as DXM (Dextromethorphan), are one of the most popular OTC medicines that can get you high. They are used to treat coughs and colds, but when taken in large doses, they can cause hallucinations, disorientation, and dissociation. DXM is a dissociative drug that can make a person feel disconnected from their body and surroundings.
Pain relievers
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can also be misused to get high. In large doses, they can cause liver and kidney damage, stomach ulcers, and internal bleeding. Some people combine pain relievers with other drugs such as alcohol to enhance their effects, which can be very dangerous and even deadly.
Dietary supplements
Dietary supplements such as energy drinks, weight loss pills, and herbal remedies can also be misused to get high. They can contain stimulants that can increase heart rate and blood pressure, causing feelings of euphoria and alertness. However, they can also cause heart palpitations, seizures, and strokes.
What are the signs of OTC medicine abuse?
OTC medicine abuse can be difficult to detect, but there are some signs that you can look out for. These include:
- Changes in behavior and mood
- Increased secrecy and isolation
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Physical symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and headaches
- Unexplained absences from work or school
If you suspect that someone you know is misusing OTC medicines, it is important to talk to them and encourage them to seek help. OTC medicine abuse can be very dangerous and can have serious consequences on a person's health and well-being.
Conclusion
OTC medicines are meant to treat minor illnesses and symptoms, but when misused or abused, they can be very dangerous and harmful to a person's health. Some OTC medicines can get you high if taken in large doses, causing feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and altered perception. It is important to read and follow the instructions on the label and to consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns. If you suspect that someone you know is misusing OTC medicines, it is important to talk to them and encourage them to seek help.