N.J. Lawmakers Seek Ban on Cough Medicine to Minors

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N.J. Lawmakers Seek Ban on Cough Medicine to Minors
September 4, 2008

News Summary from JoinTogether.org

The sale of medications containing dextromethorphan (DXM) -- commonly
found in cough and cold medicines -- to individuals under age 18 would
be prohibited in New Jersey if lawmakers approve a measure sponsored
by a pair of state senators, the Newark Star-Ledger reported Sept. 4.

Sens. Barbara Buono and Tom Kean Jr. are backing the proposed ban,
saying that misuse of drugs containing DXM is a growing problem.
Similar legislation has been proposed in other states and in Congress.
"The abuse of dextromethorphan is a growing problem in New Jersey and
across the United States," Buono said. "Because the drugs are so
readily available to kids, abuse can be easily hidden from even the
most involved parent."

Popular over-the-counter drugs containing DXM include Robitussin,
NyQuil, Contac, Coricidin, Delsym, Dimetapp, Mucinex, PediaCare,
Sudafed, Theraflu and Triaminic. Misuse of such drugs can cause a
variety of health problems, such as hallucinations, high blood
pressure, blurred vision, loss of motor control, and rapid heartbeat.

In New Jersey, 205 teens were treated for problems related to DXM use
last year, according to state officials.

Federal legislation to ban sales of products containing DXM to those
under age 18 is sponsored by Sen. Joe Biden (D-Del.). Similar bills
are pending in Maryland, Georgia, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island.

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