What Are Commonly Abused Over-The-Counter Drugs and Their Potential for Addiction?

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are widely accessible and often perceived as inherently safe. However, misuse of these medications poses significant health risks, potentially leading to addiction, severe side effects, and long-term health complications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), OTC misuse can result in respiratory depression, liver damage, and even fatal overdoses. This article explores some of the most commonly abused OTC drugs, including their street names, combinations with other substances, and the specific dangers associated with each.

Common Over-the-Counter Drugs Prone to Addiction

While most OTC medications are safe when used as directed, certain drugs are prone to abuse due to their psychoactive effects. Misuse often involves taking doses far beyond recommended levels or combining these drugs with other substances to enhance their effects. Below are some of the most commonly abused OTC drugs:

• Dextromethorphan (DXM): Found in cough suppressants like Robitussin and Delsym. Commonly referred to as “Robo,” “Skittles,” or “Triple Cs” on the street. According to NIDA, high doses of DXM can lead to euphoria, hallucinations, and serious complications such as respiratory depression. Studies in Neuropharmacology (2018) indicate that DXM abuse can also cause neurotoxicity when combined with alcohol or cannabis.
• Loperamide: An anti-diarrheal medication found in Imodium, known as “Poor Man’s Methadone” for its opioid-like effects at high doses. The FDA has warned that high doses of loperamide can cause severe cardiac issues, including arrhythmias and heart failure. A 2019 study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology corroborates these findings, linking loperamide misuse to sudden cardiac arrest in individuals abusing the drug.
• Diphenhydramine: Commonly found in antihistamines like Benadryl, it’s abused for its sedative and hallucinogenic effects. Street names include “Pinkies” or “Bennies.” MedlinePlus highlights that diphenhydramine abuse can result in seizures, delirium, and dangerous interactions when taken with other depressants. Additional research from Clinical Toxicology (2018) shows an increased risk of neuropsychiatric effects, especially when combined with alcohol.
• Acetaminophen with Caffeine: Commonly found in Excedrin and other pain relievers, this combination is often abused alongside energy drinks for a potent stimulant effect. Chronic misuse of this combination has been linked to liver toxicity and cardiovascular issues. Research from the Journal of Hepatology (2019) notes that acetaminophen, even in moderate overuse, can lead to acute liver failure, especially when combined with caffeine or alcohol.

Street Names and Dangerous Drug Combinations

Understanding street names and common drug combinations can aid in identifying OTC misuse. Certain combinations heighten the risks of severe health consequences, including overdose and cardiac issues. Below are some of the most commonly abused OTC combinations:

Risks and Health Dangers of OTC Drug Abuse

Abusing OTC medications can lead to a variety of short- and long-term health complications. The severity of these risks depends on factors such as the drug type, dosage, and interactions with other substances:

• Respiratory Issues: High doses of DXM are linked to dangerously slow breathing and respiratory arrest (SAMHSA). Studies in the American Journal of Psychiatry (2020) further indicate an increased risk of respiratory depression when DXM is combined with alcohol.
• Cardiac Arrest: Loperamide misuse is associated with severe cardiac complications, including arrhythmias and heart failure (FDA). A 2019 study in JACC links high-dose loperamide abuse to sudden cardiac events.
• Hallucinations and Psychosis: Diphenhydramine can cause hallucinations and altered mental states. Research in Clinical Toxicology (2018) identifies increased psychosis risk, especially when mixed with other depressants.
• Liver Toxicity: Chronic acetaminophen misuse, especially when combined with caffeine or alcohol, can lead to acute liver failure. The Journal of Hepatology (2019) underscores acetaminophen as one of the leading causes of drug-induced liver injury.

Prevention and Seeking Help

Preventing OTC drug misuse starts with comprehensive education and awareness. Recognizing early signs of misuse—such as taking higher doses than recommended or combining with other substances—can aid in timely intervention. If you or someone you know is struggling with OTC drug abuse, professional help is critical. Effective treatments include:

• Professional Counseling and Therapy: Target underlying psychological triggers contributing to addiction, developing healthy coping strategies.
• Medically Supervised Detox Programs: Detox under medical supervision helps manage withdrawal symptoms safely and effectively.
• Support Groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA): Establish a support network and accountability through group-based recovery programs.

Conclusion

While OTC medications can provide genuine relief when used responsibly, misuse can lead to severe health risks and potentially life-threatening outcomes. Awareness of these dangers, street names, and risky drug combinations is crucial for prevention. If you suspect OTC drug abuse, consult a healthcare professional to discuss intervention options.

Getting Help for OTC Medication Addiction

Although OTC drugs are readily available, addiction to these substances can be as severe as dependence on prescription drugs. Early intervention and professional assistance—including medically supervised detox, behavioral therapy, and long-term support—are key to recovery. If you or a loved one needs assistance, please call us at (561) 556-2677 for immediate support and guidance.