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Cough syrup psychosis.
Alfred Amaladoss1, Simon O'Brien
1Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada. alfiamaladoss@yahoo.ca
Dextromethorphan (DM) in cough syrup can be abused, leading to psychotic mania. Recognizing this cough syrup toxidrome is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment of psychiatric symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Psychiatry
- Toxicology
Background:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, including cough suppressants, are widely accessible.
- Cough suppressants containing dextromethorphan (DM) have a potential for abuse.
- Abuse of DM can lead to significant psychiatric symptoms.
Observation:
- This case report details a young woman who developed psychotic mania.
- The patient's symptoms were directly attributed to the abuse of dextromethorphan (DM) cough syrup.
- The clinical presentation and management of this specific toxidrome were observed.
Findings:
- Dextromethorphan (DM) abuse can precipitate severe psychiatric conditions, including mania and psychosis.
- The literature search revealed a pattern of psychiatric symptoms associated with DM abuse.
- Successful treatment strategies for DM-induced toxidrome were identified and applied.
Implications:
- Recognizing cough syrup abuse and its associated toxidrome is critical for timely diagnosis.
- Healthcare providers should be vigilant for dextromethorphan (DM) abuse in patients presenting with psychiatric symptoms.
- Efficient treatment protocols for DM abuse can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare burdens.

