• 04
  • April
    2011

Teen drug use is most often associated with smoking marijuana. Many teens, however, are getting buzzed from an item that is found in almost every American home-cough medicine. Cough medicine contains dextromethorphan (DXM), an active ingredient in cough medicine. Taken in large doses, it can achieve a high. This high is commonly referred to as "Robo Tripping" (Robo is short for the Robitussin brand of cough medicine).

According to the Partnership for a Drug-Free America, a DXM high can result in color distortions, visual and sound hallucinations, loss of motor control, and out-of-body sensations. Further DXM effects include:

  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Blurred vision
  • Slurred speech
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Disorientation
  • Rapid heart beat

Unfortunately, alongside these side effects, there are other indirect consequences that result from "Robo Tripping."

A person driving under the influence of caught syrup can be pulled over in California-if an officer suspects the driver is impaired-and charged with DUI. Drunk-driving charges do not apply to just alcohol or drugs, but any substance, legal or otherwise, that impairs a person's ability to drive.

Because the penalties and consequences of DUI are severe, it's important to speak with an experienced California DUI attorney if you or someone you know is facing this type of charge.