Coricidin Cough & Cold, often called “Triple C’s,” is an over-the-counter cough medication that has become a substance of abuse, particularly among teenagers and young adults. It’s easily accessible in many homes, contributing to its misuse.
The key component in Triple C is DXM (dextromethorphan), which belongs to the morphinan class of drugs. This group is known for its dissociative, sedative, and stimulant effects. High doses of DXM can lead to visual hallucinations and a sense of detachment from reality, a state often referred to as “robotripping.”
Despite the rising concern, DXM products are not federally regulated, allowing the abuse of Triple C to persist without significant legal intervention.
Available widely online and in stores like Amazon and Walmart, Triple C can be purchased in 24 and 48-count boxes, making it alarmingly accessible to youths. Some formulations contain up to 10mg of dextromethorphan per pill, offering a potent high. Although 15 states implemented restrictions on selling DXM products to minors in 2020, it remains widely available in most regions. Besides Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold, numerous other brands and generics also contain DXM, known by nicknames such as Dex, DXM, Skittles, and Robo.
Understanding the mechanism and effects of Triple C is crucial for safeguarding oneself or loved ones from potential abuse.
What Are Triple C’s?
Triple C’s, known on the streets as skittles, red devil, or dex, is the informal name for Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold, an over-the-counter medication. It contains dextromethorphan (DXM), a component found in various cough and cold remedies.
While Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold is legal, its DXM content makes it susceptible to abuse, producing effects akin to those of PCP and ketamine at high doses. Users seeking hallucinogenic and dissociative experiences may consume far beyond the recommended dosage, experiencing effects that can last up to six hours.
The danger of Triple C abuse is compounded by the medication’s other ingredients, including expectorants, pain relievers, and antihistamines, each with its own side effects. When mixed with DXM in excessive amounts, these substances can lead to harmful, if not fatal, outcomes.
Who Abuses Triple C Drug?
The misuse of DXM-containing medications like Triple C’s dates back to when they were first sold over the counter in the 1960s. The initial abuse of Romilar tablets for DXM’s mind-altering effects led to its withdrawal from the market, only to be replaced by less palatable syrup forms that also contained deterrent ingredients like guaifenesin.
DXM abuse saw a resurgence in the 1980s within the punk community, with Robitussin DM and similar cough syrups becoming the substances of choice, earning nicknames such as Robo, robocop, and the Robo shuffle.
Cough syrups became increasingly popular as substances of abuse with the emergence of ‘lean’ or ‘purple drank’, a concoction that mixes cough syrup with soda, candy, and sometimes alcohol. Today, OTC drugs similar to Triple C’s drug are primarily abused by adolescents, teens, and young adults, often influenced by certain music genres and social media portrayals.
The Effects of Triple C
The misuse of Triple Cs can lead to significant alterations in perception and behavior, often resulting in what is known as robotripping. This term describes the euphoric high and disorienting effects individuals seek from consuming high doses of the medication.
Common experiences during a Triple C high include intense visual hallucinations, delusions, and feelings of euphoria. However, the adverse effects of abusing Triple Cs extend beyond these sought-after experiences. Users may encounter a range of harmful symptoms, including:
- Sudden and dramatic changes in blood pressure, with potential spikes that can be dangerous
- An irregular or erratic heartbeat
- Difficulty articulating words or slurred speech
- Muscle spasms or loss of control over muscle movements
- Persistent stomach pain
- Visual disturbances, including double vision or blurred sight
- Severe nausea and abdominal discomfort
- In rare instances, significant brain damage following consumption of excessively large doses of dextromethorphan
These side effects underscore the risks associated with Triple C abuse, emphasizing the need for awareness and caution regarding its use.
Are Triple Cs Safe?
While taking the recommended doses of Triple Cs is generally safe, consuming it in large quantities can lead to serious health risks. These include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
- Impaired speech
- Loss of muscle coordination
- Intense stomach cramps
- Elevated blood pressure
- Arrhythmic heartbeat
- Potential for brain damage
Abusing dextromethorphan by exceeding the recommended dosage can induce profound hallucinations and a euphoric state lasting over six hours.
For safe use, it’s advised to consume between 10mg and 30mg of dextromethorphan every six hours, adjusted for individual factors such as age and body weight. Dangerously high doses can result in an overdose, presenting symptoms like:
- Shallow, strained breathing or respiratory depression
- Blurred vision
- Cyanosis of lips or nails
- Coordination difficulties
- Nausea and vomiting
- Spike in body temperature
- Blood pressure fluctuations
- Heart palpitations and rapid heartbeat
- Auditory and visual hallucinations
- Seizures
- Coma
Moreover, Triple Cs contain significant levels of acetaminophen, a pain reliever generally safe in prescribed amounts but potentially harmful to the liver in excessive doses. With each pill containing 300mg of acetaminophen, ingesting just half a pack can surpass the daily recommended limit, risking liver damage with prolonged misuse of Triple Cs.
Can You Get Addicted to Triple Cs?
Although it’s relatively rare, the potential for addiction exists with the misuse of Triple C, especially when used excessively. The active ingredient, dextromethorphan (DXM), can lead to tolerance, requiring users to consume higher doses for the same euphoric effects. This can spiral into physical dependence. Withdrawal from Triple C can manifest through both physical and psychological symptoms, such as:
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Restlessness, insomnia
- Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
- Cold sweats, shivering
- Anxiety, irritability, and depression
- Cravings
- Confusion, disorientation
- In extreme cases, hallucinations or delusions
These symptoms highlight the importance of a supportive environment for recovery, especially for adolescents and young adults seeking to break free from Triple C’s grip.
Signs of Triple C Drug Addiction
Triple C misuse is notably prevalent among teenagers but can affect individuals of any age. Recognizing the signs of abuse is crucial for timely intervention. Indicators of Triple C addiction might include:
- Unexplained disappearance of cold medicines
- Finding numerous empty cold medicine packages at home
- Gradual reduction in the amount of cold medicine, indicating piecemeal consumption for a high
- Noticeable shifts in behavior or personality
- Physical signs such as rapid eye movement, excessive sleepiness, disorientation, or sweating
- Experiencing hallucinations or increased paranoia
Addressing addiction early can prevent long-term health consequences associated with Triple C drug addiction.
How Long Does Triple C Stay in Your System?
The onset of Triple C’s effects can be felt within 15 to 30 minutes after consumption, typically lasting between 3 to 6 hours. However, the active ingredient, dextromethorphan (DXM), has a longer presence in the body. Rapid metabolizers may find DXM lingering in their bloodstream for 11 to 22 hours, whereas those who metabolize the drug more slowly could have it in their system for up to 33 hours.
Can Drug Tests Detect Triple C in Your System?
While standard drug tests do not specifically screen for Triple C, they are designed to detect illegal substances and certain prescription medications in various bodily samples. Due to DXM’s chemical similarity to substances like PCP and ketamine, high doses of DXM might trigger false-positive results in PCP urine tests.
Can you Overdose on Triple Cs?
Overdosing on Triple C is a significant risk, especially as achieving the sought-after high often involves consuming large quantities of the drug. This elevates the danger of ingesting more than the body can safely process, leading to an overdose. Annually, DXM contributes to over 6,000 emergency department visits in the United States alone. An overdose of Triple C is a critical medical emergency that requires immediate attention. If you suspect an overdose, either for yourself or someone else, it’s imperative to call 911 without delay.
Seeking Help for Triple C Addiction
West Georgia Wellness Center provides comprehensive support for those battling Triple C addiction in Atlanta, GA. Our residential substance abuse treatment programs, in collaboration with leading detox centers, ensure a safe detoxification process, minimizing withdrawal discomfort. Beyond detox, our programs offer essential coping strategies for sustained sobriety.
Our evidence-based approaches are tailored to help individuals overcome their addiction to Triple C and embark on a journey to recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with Triple C misuse, reach out to West Georgia Wellness Center at 470-347-1705. Our experts are ready to guide you towards a healthier, substance-free life.
