Research shows that children who are educated about the dangers of drug abuse at their home are 50% less likely to use drugs. A survey of parents has revealed that although most parents feel comfortable talking to their children about the dangers of using cough medicine, only 20 percent have done this. One in ten teenagers has used cough medicine to get high.
Five mothers across the country started the Five Moms: Stopping the Abuse of Cough Medicines Campaign one year ago (www.fivemoms.comThis is to help bridge that communication gap. The anniversary of their effort saw them reach 23 million parents through their web site, personal blogs, and viral video.
“I can’t help but think how different my family’s life would be had we known that cough medicine abuse was happening,”Christy Crandell of Five Mom Christy said that her son was arrested for armed burglary while high on marijuana and cough medicine. “I can only hope that other parents understand the importance of taking steps to protect their teens from abusing cough medicine.”
Teens abuse cough medicine by intentionally taking large quantities – often 25 to 50 times the recommended dosage – in order to get high. “high”Dextromethorphan, the active ingredient (DXM), is used. Many teens report that they have mixed cough medicine with alcohol and other drugs, which increases their risk of serious injury and even death.
The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA), representing the top manufacturers of over-the counter cough medicine, created the Five Moms Campaign. CHPA was concerned about abuse of their products and enlisted the Five Moms as a way to educate parents.
These are the Five Moms’ tips for parents to prepare them for talking with their children about misuse of cough medicine.
– Get educated. Learn the terms children use to describe misuse of cough medicine such as Robo, Triple C, and Dex.
– Protect medicines at your home. Keep an eye on your medicine cabinets and take note of which products are in there.
Communicate with your teenager. Talk to your teens regarding all forms of drug abuse, even cough medicine abuse.
Monitor the Internet use of your teenagers. Many sites encourage the abuse of cough medicine by offering instructions, abuser communication group videos or providing videos. Be aware of what your teens are doing online.
Recognize warning signs for cough medicine abuse. You should be aware of missing or empty cough medicine bottles and suspicious behavior.
Visit www.fivemoms.org for more information on the Five Moms. Also, learn how to avoid misuse of cough medicines. www.fivemoms.com.