Abstract

Dextromethorphan (DXM) and DXM-containing cough preparations are available over-the-counter (OTC) and are commonly abused for their euphoriant and hallucinogenic properties. These effects occur when DXM is taken in high doses (10-20 times the amount recommended for cough suppression). Awareness of DXM abuse in the primary care setting is warranted due to its prevalent use and potential to result in drug-induced liver injury (DILI). Reaching a diagnosis of DILI involves an extensive workup to exclude other known causes. If a physician is to identify the use of a single drug as the cause of a patient’s liver injury, a high level of suspicion must be held. We herein present a case of an 82-year-old male who was dependent on over-the-counter, DXM-containing products and who used them regularly for three years. This case report highlights DILI as one potential consequence of chronic OTC DXM use, as is evident from our diagnostic workup.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.