How does dextromethorphan effect the body

The effects of this dose are hard to shake off and last longer than the effects of other plateaus. Some people have experienced the effects for 2 weeks after stopping DXM, though this is very rare. Taking this much DXM causes a trance-like state and sensations similar to out-of-body experiences. Delirium and hallucinations often lead to aggressive or violent behavior. People also experience reduced pain perception. DXM produces several physical effects that vary from person to person and by dose.

The product you take also matters. DXM products often contain other active ingredients that produce their own effects. The effects start to kick in around 30 to 60 minutes after taking DXM and reach their peak at 2 to 4 hours. Your dose, other ingredients, and your body mass index BMI can affect how quickly you begin to feel it.

Your best bet is to try to sleep it off. In these folks, the substance takes longer to clear from the body, increasing the risk of overdose and death.

This can stop your lungs from exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide, which is medically known as respiratory depression. This results in slow and shallow breathing. Left untreated, it could lead to respiratory arrest and death.

High doses of DXM have been linked to dangerous behavior that stems from effects like hallucinations, psychosis, and agitation. According to various reports , DXM misuse has also been linked to assault, suicide, and homicide. Taking it with other CNS depressants can intensify or prolong the effects of both and significantly increase your risk for respiratory arrest, overdose, and death.

Mixing substances is never a good idea, but the following make for a particularly risky combo with DXM:. They include:.

People can develop a substance use disorder, including addiction, around DXM. Users can develop a tolerance as well as a psychological and physical dependence to DXM. Taking more than the directed dose of DXM — or any medication for that matter — comes with risks. Just be sure to tell them about specific symptoms so they can send the appropriate response.

If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be awakened, immediately call emergency services at It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription over-the-counter medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital.

It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies. Dextromethorphan pronounced as dex troe meth or' fan.

Why is this medication prescribed? How should this medicine be used? Other uses for this medicine What special precautions should I follow? What special dietary instructions should I follow? What should I do if I forget a dose? What side effects can this medication cause? What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication? Brand names Brand names of combination products Other names. If you are using the dissolving strips, place them on your tongue and swallow after they melt.

If you are taking the lozenges, allow them to slowly melt in your mouth. Other uses for this medicine. What special precautions should I follow? Before taking dextromethorphan, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to dextromethorphan, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in the product you plan to take.

Check the package label for a list of the ingredients. If you become pregnant while taking dextromethorphan, call your doctor. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

Dextromethorphan may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: dizziness lightheadedness drowsiness nervousness restlessness nausea vomiting stomach pain If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: rash Dextromethorphan may cause other side effects.

Symptoms of overdose may include: nausea vomiting drowsiness dizziness unsteadiness changes in vision difficulty breathing fast heartbeat hallucinating seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist seizures coma loss of consciousness for a period of time. Dextromethorphan-containing products — tablets, capsules, gel caps, lozenges, and syrups — are labeled DM, cough suppressant, or Tuss or contain "tuss" in the title. When people take too much DXM, they might have hallucinations and "out-of-body" sensations.

DXM also depresses brain function, particularly the parts of the brain that control breathing and heart function. Taking a lot of DXM causes hallucinations and out-of-body sensations similar to the ones caused by drugs like ketamine and PCP. These effects can last as long as 6 hours. DXM also can make users have trouble controlling their limbs and cause blurred vision, slurred speech, dizziness, and impaired judgment.