So a combination of medicines that appears safe for one person may have dangerous or deadly consequences for another person. In addition, combining the use of DXM with alcohol produces extra strain on the liver for any user. Many people use cough remedies containing dextromethorphan, also called DXM, for quick cough relief. Its effectiveness is well known in over-the-counter medicines like Robitussin, and it is a widely used ingredient in many different cough remedies. But when DXM is combined with another strong substance like alcohol, users put themselves at great risk for harm.
Dextromethorphan (DXM) inhibits the function of these receptors and prevents them from sending signals to the brain. However, the opioid system’s involvement in the lower concentrations of ketamine that are used to induce antidepressant effects is not as well understood. Ketamine’s transient therapeutic effects may be contingent upon the opioid system’s activation. The glutamatergic system has become a significant focus of research 25.
Can I take dextromethorphan with other medications?
When you take cough and cold medication, one of the ingredients is likely dextromethorphan. However, mixing dextromethorphan with alcohol can be problematic in several ways. Not only do dextromethorphan and alcohol have a drug interaction that can increase your risk of side effects, but drinking alcohol while sick may prolong your illness.
At The Recovery Village Kansas City, our medical detox staff can help you wean off alcohol and DXM safely and comfortably. We also have inpatient rehab, intensive outpatient treatment, partial hospitalization and aftercare programs to help support your long-term sobriety. The metabolism of cough syrup can vary based on individual factors such as age, weight, and liver function. However, it is generally advised to wait at least 24 hours before consuming alcohol. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the risks and interactions of OTC and prescription medications taken with alcohol. Rehabilitation programs (inpatient or outpatient), therapy, support groups, how long after taking dextromethorphan can i drink alcohol or a combination of all three can help people recover from a substance use disorder.
The emotional systems, the understanding of feelings and the role of the opioids
- Although DXM is structurally similar to opioids, it works on different receptors in the brain than opioids.
- DXM is a synthetic derivative of morphine that inhibits the release and action of the excitatory neurotransmitter N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), an action that helps to suppress the cough reflex.
- Chronic misuse of DXM can lead to long-lasting cognitive impairments affecting memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills.
- There is 1 alcohol/food/lifestyle interaction with Delsym 12 Hour Cough Relief (dextromethorphan).
- Opioid receptor blockers reduce the effectiveness of this contact, but socially isolated birds settle down and cry less.
When DXM is misused, larger doses are taken to get a “high” or hallucinogenic effect. Rachael grew up in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai until she was seven when her parents moved to the US. By Buddy TBuddy T is a writer and founding member of the Online Al-Anon Outreach Committee with decades of experience writing about alcoholism. Because he is a member of a support group that stresses the importance of anonymity at the public level, he does not use his photograph or his real name on this website.
The accessibility of this substance, combined with the availability of alcohol, makes them easy targets for abuse. This essential anti-reward center has a role in the pathophysiology of depression 44. While ketamine did not exhibit direct MOR agonist properties in this work, it was essential to demonstrate some MOR action to inhibit the NMDA receptor 44. Both receptors may contribute to the antidepressant effects of ketamine 47.
It’s important that you don’t mix alcohol with any of the following medications. John C. Umhau, MD, MPH, CPE is board-certified in addiction medicine and preventative medicine. For over 20 years Dr. Umhau was a senior clinical investigator at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Dextromethorphan can be psychologically addictive when misused at high doses for its hallucinogenic effects, so it is important to use this medication responsibly. Join 40,000+ People Who Receive Our Newsletter Get valuable resources on addiction, recovery, wellness, and our treatments delivered directly to your inbox. You should not drink when taking dextromethorphan as it can lead to severe and unpredictable side effects.
Substance of Abuse
While dextromethorphan may benefit those suffering from a cough as an over-the-counter medicine, it can be dangerous when mixed with alcohol. The effects of DXM are all exacerbated by alcohol since they both bind to NMDA receptors. As a cough suppressant, when dextromethorphan is absorbed into the bloodstream, it binds to receptors in the brain called NMDA receptors.
How does Delsym affect alcohol metabolism?
For example, a person who is hallucinating may become agitated and hostile, or they may attempt to harm themselves or others.
The effects of an overdose are similar to ketamine or phencyclidine (PCP), causing a floating or out-of-body sensation. Even one drink can have a stronger impact on your body when combined with dextromethorphan. Always read the label and package insert of any medication you are taking, whether it has been prescribed by your doctor or purchased over-the-counter. If you are not sure if it is safe to drink alcohol while you are taking medication, call a local pharmacy or talk to your doctor about the potential interactions.
How can I minimize the risk of dextromethorphan side effects?
Understanding the risks of mixing the two substances before you drink is essential. Since drinking alcohol with over-the-counter cough and cold medications involves combining similar substances, the overall amount of alcohol consumed is increased. Yes, it is important to follow the recommended guidelines and precautions when considering alcohol consumption after taking dextromethorphan. These include waiting at least 24 hours, avoiding excessive alcohol intake, and being aware of the potential interactions and side effects. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice based on your specific situation.
Alcohol can interact with certain medications and intensify their effects or amplify side effects. While in most cases a period of 2 hours is considered safe, this may vary depending on the drug being taken. For instance, some medicines, like antibiotics, may make alcohol less effective in fighting infections. In most cases, abstaining from drinking while taking medication is usually the wisest course of action. The use of alcohol alongside sleep medications, such as Ambien and Lunesta, can raise the possibility of sedation and vertigo.
One of the biggest risks with DXM and alcohol co-use is the potential for additional harmful effects and stress on the liver. When dextromethorphan is an ingredient in a cough suppressant medication, the compound’s primary expected effect is a reduction in an urge to cough. But this strong medicine does more than just tell your brain to cough less. When DXM is the key ingredient in a cough and cold medicine, users will also experience other strong effects like dizziness or lightheadedness. As a result, users are told to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for up to six hours after ingesting a medicine with this ingredient. Dextromethorphan (DXM) is an active ingredient in many cough, cold and flu medicines.
Delsym 12 Hour Cough Relief drug interactions
Blood thinners are known to have this effect, so it is advisable to avoid drinking alcohol if taking these kinds of drugs. Using DXM and alcohol in combination represents a dangerous and potentially fatal practice. Because both drugs are central nervous system depressants, using them in combination enhances both their effects and can lead to numerous potentially serious conditions. The potential dangers of using these drugs in combination are significantly exacerbated when one uses DXM or alcohol at higher doses.