CHPA supports efforts of Dr. Drew, Five Moms Campaign in curbing DXM abuse
WASHINGTON The Consumer Healthcare Products Association last week announced that Drew Pinsky, a nationally renowned drug abuse expert, will be joining the Five Moms Campaign in spreading the word to parents and legislators about the dangers of cough medicine abuse.
“Parents have far more power than they realize to keep their kids drannoug-free but our legislators also play a role in preventing this problem,” stated Pinsky, who is host of the popular radio show Loveline and the star of the VH1 hits “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew” and “Sober House.” “In addition to raising awareness about the dangers of cough medicine abuse, the Five Moms and I are spending [Oct. 20] on Capitol Hill to encourage our elected officials to pass key legislation that would prohibit the sale of the raw form of dextromethorphan online, prohibit the sale of OTC cough medicine to those under 18 years of age.”
In addition to supporting the efforts of Drew and the Five Moms, CHPA has included a new educational icon for parents on the packaging of OTC cough medicines. This icon serves as a mini public service announcement for parents by making them aware of the issue of cough medicine abuse among teens and pointing them to StopMedicineAbuse.org where they can access resources they need to talk to their teen.
“The makers of cough medicine are steadfast in their commitment to raise awareness about the dangers of cough medicine abuse,” stated Linda Suydam, CHPA president. “Medicines containing dextromethorphan have a 50-year history of being safe and effective when used correctly. But when abused in extreme excess, dextromethorphan can produce dangerous side effects, especially when combined with alcohol, illicit drugs, or certain prescription drugs. We encourage parents to visit StopMedicineAbuse.org to learn more about the issue and engage in conversations about the dangers of medicine abuse with their teens.”
StopMedicineAbuse.org was developed by CHPA to help drive awareness around the potential for this type of substance abuse behavior, provide tips to prevent it from happening, and encourage parents to safeguard their medicine cabinets.