Patterns and Perceptions of Dextromethorphan Use in Adult Members of an Online Dextromethorphan Community.
Journal of psychoactive drugs January 1, 2015 George Pringle, Michael P McDonald, Kara I Gabriel
Dextromethorphan (DXM), a widely available cough suppressant, produces euphoric and dissociative effects at high doses. An analysis of survey responses from 52 adult members of an online DXM community (9 female, 43 male, aged 18–63) found that most first learned about DXM online or from a friend, preferred to use it alone, and often combined it with other substances to modify its effects. Nearly all reported using DXM for its dissociative and mind-altering properties, perceived it as safe, and saw no need for further regulation; only 14% mentioned its addictive potential. The findings depict a sophisticated subculture where users deliberately seek altered mental states.