MUST READ: 5 Commonly Abused Household Items
People all throughout history have found ways to alter their minds. More recently these substances have become increasingly dangerous. It’s no longer plants and plant-based chemicals, but hazardous man-made chemicals with intended purposes that are far from being ingested for a “buzz.”
1. Cough Syrup– This one has been around for quite some time. Slangily called “robotripping” because it’s often associated with Robitussin syrup. The “buzz” comes from the ingredient dextromethorphan (DXM). The user will consume an entire bottle of cough syrup containing DXM. The buzz is psychedelic in nature. At the recommended dosage this drug is beneficial and causes little side-effects. At the abused dosage it can cause hypertension, tachycardia, and seizures. This is popular among teens due to its availability and low cost.
2. Air Duster- This product is often sold as keyboard cleaner. The high is achieved by inhaling the product and is often called “dusting.” When the user inhales, the aerosol removes the oxygen from the lungs and carbon dioxide from the blood. This is incredibly dangerous and can result in death after first use. The high is short-lived but cheap and readily available at most any Walmart.
3. Nutmeg- I bet this one surprised you. It’s true though. Nutmeg contains small amounts of Myristicin, a psychoactive substance that is chemically similar to Mescaline, the active compound in Peyote. The high can actually be pretty intense. However, the user would have to consume a large amount of ground nutmeg. Doing this tastes horrible and can cause gastrointestinal issues. The “trip” can last up to 48 hours which increases the chance of a “bad trip” where the user experiences intense fear and anxiety. Nutmeg can also be toxic. The danger far outweighs the achieved “buzz,” but it’s low cost and availability make it a scary option.
4. Hand Sanitizer– A large bottle of hand sanitizer can contain the same amount of alcohol that’s in 30 shots of Vodka. This has become increasingly common. Not only is it cheap and often already at the house, but it’s easily concealed. Not many people question someone carrying around hand sanitizer. This can wreak havoc on the digestive tract.
5. Medicine Cabinet- This one should be commonly known by now. Many drugs are prescribed by doctors that many people dismiss as harmless or only for one purpose. This isn’t true. In today’s world of the internet, any pill or substance can easily be looked up, and if it can be abused, then a user can learn how quickly. It’s better to lock everything up just to be sure.
Bonus- The Choking Game- This one isn’t a substance, but more a dangerous action that is used for a high. Kids/teens are letting their friends choke them to the point of passing out, and sometimes they do. Another method to achieve the same effect is to hyperventilate on purpose. People will do almost anything to feel a little different.
The moral of this story is for parents to stay aware and vigilant. These substances in your child’s room might have never been looked at twice. Look for items coming up missing or a lot of one item emptying more quickly than usual. Reading articles like this is an excellent way to start and to stay on top of things. Education is never a bad thing. If you suspect that you or someone you love might be addicted call (606) 638-0938. There is help out there.
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In His Steps,
Jonathan Hughes, MA, CNP, CTBHP
Kentucky Peer Support Specialist
Addiction Recovery Care
Great info. Thanks