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[Recreational usage of dextromethorphan--analysis based on internet users experiences].
Maciej Zajac1, Agata Andrzejczyk2, Aleksandra Kuich2
1Zakład Toksykologii Klinicznej, Gdański Uniwersytet Medyczny. maciekzajac@onet.eu
Dextromethorphan (DXM) is increasingly used nonmedically by young people. Analysis of online reports reveals common symptoms and high recreational assessment, highlighting risks associated with easy accessibility.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Nonmedical use of dextromethorphan (DXM) has risen among adolescents.
- This trend is particularly noted in school-aged children (13-16 years).
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze "trip reports" of dextromethorphan (DXM) users from 1999-2013.
- To understand user demographics, usage patterns, and reported effects.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 124 "trip reports" from www.hyperreal.info.
- Data categorized by age, sex, symptoms, dosage, reason, and location of DXM use.
Main Results:
- Majority of users were male (90.3%) and aged 16-20 (80.4%).
- Common reasons for use included experimentation (41.9%) and seeking a "high" (25.8%).
- Reported symptoms included gait difficulties (74.2%), visual illusions (73.4%), and altered time perception (41.9%). DXM received positive recreational assessment (84.7%).
Conclusions:
- Dextromethorphan (DXM) is a popular recreational substance with positive user reviews.
- Easy access to DXM poses health risks to young people experimenting with psychoactive drugs.
- Enhanced control over DXM sales is recommended.
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