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During the last decade there has been a significant increase
in the number of teenagers abusing such over-the-counter drugs
as cough syrup, cold medications and sleep enhancers. Many
over-the-counter drugs contain dextromethorphan (DMX), which
can cause hallucinations, fatigue, personality changes, ataxia,
slurred speech and confusion, among others. An estimated one
out of 11 teenagers abuses this drug, which has a chemical
makeup similar to morphine. Teenagers may be attracted to
over-the-counter drugs because they are less costly than street
drugs. There are no legal limits on purchasing DXM products,
so they are generally easy to obtain. Up to now, most pharmacies
and supermarkets do not ask teenagers why they are purchasing
these drugs. On this special we will focus on the signs and
symptoms of this abuse; what parents, caregivers and friends
should look for and do if they are able to identify the problem;
treatments for OTC abuse; and the role of health professionals
in curbing the abuse of these substances.
Tape Piece (Pt 1) - (Paula M. Levine) We
profile Ryan, a high school senior who lives in Morristown.
At the age of 9, Ryan was diagnosed with ADD. By the time
he was 11, he had run the gamut of meds on the market ...
Aderol, Ridilen, and Welbutrin. And by 13, he was selling
them to classmates. From there, he spiraled steadily downhill
experimenting with alcohol, valium, oxycontin, cocaine, pot,
and ecstasy. At the age of 16, he crashed hard, and started
treatment. Since then, he has slowly been making his way back.
We'll interview him, speak with his very supportive mom, and
see which programs have helped him and how. We mention the
Caron Foundation, where Ryan found treatment. "Road Recovery"
in the city is where Ryan is currently learning to refocus
his life through music!
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Dr. Terry Horton |
Linda Surks |
Angelo Valente |
Ace |
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Guests
Dr. Terry Horton – Medical Director of Phoenix
House, a non-profit organization that provides drug and
alcohol treatment and prevention services.
Linda Surks – Who works in the field
of substance abuse prevention. Linda lost her son Jason
to a dug overdose three years ago.
Angelo Valente – Executive Director of
Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey.
Ace – Who is battling an addiction
to over-the-counter drugs and is currently undergoing treatment
at Daytop.
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