Individuals may use cough syrup to self-medicate for stress, anxiety, or depression.
Over-the-counter availability of many cough syrups makes it easier for individuals to misuse them.
Social groups or peers may introduce individuals to the misuse of cough syrup for its sedative or euphoric effects.
Tolerance (needing more to feel the same effects), withdrawal symptoms when not using, and impaired motor skills.
Cravings, anxiety, and irritability when not using the syrup, often associated with a desire to experience euphoria or numb emotional pain.
Frequent use of cough syrup, neglecting responsibilities, and risky behaviors related to its misuse.
Commonly found in many cough syrups, DXM can cause dissociative effects when abused, leading to hallucinations and a sense of detachment from reality.
Containing an opioid, codeine can produce a calming, euphoric feeling, and long-term use may lead to dependency.