Cough syrup psychosis.

CJEM. 2011 Jan;13(1):53-6.

Amaladoss A, O'Brien S.

Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada. alfiamaladoss@yahoo.ca
Abstract

Over-the-counter medications are widely accessible and used. Cough suppressant syrups contain dextromethorphan (DM), which has the potential to be abused, with resultant psychiatric symptoms. This case report describes a young woman presenting with psychotic mania secondary to DM abuse. We also describe the treatment of this toxidrome and include the results of a literature search on this topic. The recognition of cough syrup as an agent of abuse and its toxidrome is important. This will facilitate early diagnostic clarification and promote efficient treatment strategies.



PMID: 21324299 [PubMed - in process]

Dextromethorphan- and pseudoephedrine-induced agitated psychosis and ataxia: case report.

J Emerg Med. 1999 Mar-Apr;17(2):285-8.

Roberge RJ, Hirani KH, Rowland PL 3rd, Berkeley R, Krenzelok EP.

Department of Emergency Medicine, Western Pennsylvania Hospital, Pittsburgh 15224, USA.

Abstract

Pseudoephedrine and dextromethorphan are therapeutic constituents of numerous commonly used, over-the-counter cough and cold preparations. Although this drug combination is generally considered quite safe if utilized in recommended doses, overmedication or overdose can result in serious neurologic and cardiovascular abnormalities that occasionally can be life-threatening. We present a case of a 2-year-old child who developed hyperirritability, psychosis, and ataxia after being overmedicated with a pseudoephedrine/dextromethorphan combination cough preparation, and discuss probable mechanisms of toxicity and risk factors for adverse events.

PMID: 10195488 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]