Triple C is a commonly used name for Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold, a brand of over-the-counter cough medicine that has recently gained traction as a widely abused chemical substance. Triple C abuse is most common among teenagers and young adults, seeing as it can easily be found in the medicine cabinets of many residential households.
The active ingredient in this common cough medication is dextromethorphan, which can produce dissociation and auditory and visual hallucinations when taken in high doses. Because the federal government does not currently regulate dextromethorphan products, teenagers and young adults continue to abuse this drug – mostly in social settings.
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Triple C Abuse and Addiction
When taken as prescribed, this medication is safe to use and causes no serious side effects. However, when taken in exceptionally high doses, it can be hazardous and even result in an overdose. Unlike many other commonly abused cough medications, Triple C comes in a pill form and looks like a small piece of candy, which is why it is frequently referred to as “skittles.”
Using Triple C in high doses produces several severe side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, changes to vision, severe stomach cramping, slurred speech, a loss of muscle control, increased blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and, in extreme cases, brain damage. If an individual takes more dextromethorphan than prescribed, they are liable to feel euphoric and hallucinatory effects that last for up to 6 hours. It is important to note a fine line between taking more than suggested and taking far too much.
Triple C Overdoses Are Dangerous
A safe dose of dextromethorphan is between 10 and 30 mg every 6 hours, depending on age and body weight. This medication includes a powerful opioid, so taking any more than the recommended dose can result in an overdose. Some of the more common symptoms associated with dextromethorphan overdose include:
- Respiratory depression, which provides for slow and difficult breathing
- Blurred vision and an inability to see clearly
- Bluish-colored lips and fingernails
- An inability to walk straight or stand up
- Nausea and vomiting
- A sharp increase in body temperature
- Blood pressure that is unusually high or low
- Heart palpitations and rapid heartbeat
- Intense auditory and visual hallucinations
- Seizures
- Coma
If you or someone you love has been abusing this medication, it is essential to seek professional treatment sooner than later. Not only is overdose a severe threat, but the symptoms associated with Triple C withdrawal can be difficult when not constantly overseen by a team of experienced medical professionals. At Allure Detox, we treat all the symptoms related to Triple C withdrawal quickly and effectively.
What Are Triple C Withdrawal Symptoms?
If someone has been abusing dextromethorphan for any period, they are liable to experience a range of moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms as soon as use is stopped. The severity of associated symptoms depends heavily on the individual’s physiology, the frequency of abuse, and the dosage is taken regularly.
While these symptoms are not typically life-threatening, they can result in serious complications when not effectively treated. Some of the more common symptoms associated with Triple C withdrawal include:
- Significant weight loss due to a lack of appetite and an upset stomach
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Intense psychological drug cravings
- Hallucinations and flashbacks
- Uncontrollable shaking
- Insomnia and other sleep-related issues
- Cold sweats and night sweats
- Anxiety and restlessness
Allure Detox and Triple C Withdrawal Help
Because the symptoms associated with Triple C withdrawal are rarely life-threatening, we utilize several safe, non-narcotic medications to treat symptoms as they arise effectively.
In addition to Medication-Assisted Treatment, we offer our clients the opportunity to begin their journeys of emotional and psychological healing by providing several daily, recovery-related group sessions as well as individual therapy. For more information on our comprehensive, medically monitored detox program, reach out to Allure Detox today.