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Rep. Kahle plan calls for greater protections against teen cough medicine abuse
RELEASE|March 27, 2019

State Rep. Bronna Kahle has introduced legislation to protect teens from an active drug found in over-the-counter cough medicines.

Dextromethorphan (DXM) is a cough suppressant used to treat common cold symptoms. While safe when used as directed, the drug can become dangerous if abused – causing liver damage, heart attack, self-injury while under the influence, and in some cases, death. Teenagers across the country have been reported taking 25 times or more of the recommended dose to get high.

“One in 30 teens has abused cough medicine through high dosage, recreational use,” said Kahle, of Adrian, referencing a study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. “That’s almost one student per classroom. We must ensure that this option for abuse is not easily obtained by our youth.”

While the abuse of cough medicine in teens is staggering, national statistics actually show decreased usage in recent years. According to experts, that’s thanks to stricter age-restriction policies across the nation.

Age-restriction laws have been implemented in 17 other states.

“States across the U.S. have taken steps to combat teen DXM abuse,” Kahle said. “It’s time for Michigan to step up and implement restrictions to protect our kids and potentially save lives.”

House Bill 4412 was referred to the House Health Policy Committee.

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