Why Mixing Cough Medicine and Alcohol Is a Dangerous Idea

Being sick is miserable. Between the stuffy nose, headaches, chills, and constant coughing, it’s no wonder we reach for cold medicine to get some relief and a good night’s sleep. But what happens when cough medicine is used for something other than treating a cold?

Dextromethorphan (DXM), a common ingredient in many over-the-counter cough and cold products, is sometimes misused for its psychoactive effects. People may take it to experience hallucinations or euphoria, and it’s often mixed with other substances—including alcohol. Let’s explore why combining DXM and alcohol is so risky.

What Is DXM?

Dextromethorphan (DXM) is a cough suppressant found in many cold and flu medications. It works by affecting certain brain chemicals and reducing activity in the part of the brain that controls coughing. DXM also influences serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood, which is why it’s sometimes studied for potential use in treating depression and other conditions. However, its approved use remains limited to cough relief.

Common Side Effects of DXM

Even at normal doses, DXM can cause side effects such as:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Digestive issues
• Skin rash

At high doses—especially when misused—DXM can cause hallucinations, confusion, and impaired coordination.

How DXM Is Misused

Because DXM is available without a prescription, it’s sometimes misused, especially by teens and young adults. Common forms of misuse include:

• Taking large amounts to experience a “high”
• Combining it with other drugs or alcohol
• “Robotripping” or “dexing”—slang for consuming excessive amounts of DXM-containing products

Misusing DXM can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory depression, liver damage, and long-term cognitive problems.

DXM and Alcohol: A Dangerous Mix

Combining DXM and alcohol is especially hazardous. Here’s why:

• Respiratory Risk: Both DXM and alcohol slow down the central nervous system. Together, they can dangerously reduce breathing, potentially leading to respiratory failure.
• Increased Impairment: Coordination, judgment, and reaction time are significantly worsened when DXM and alcohol are mixed.
• Serotonin Syndrome: Both substances can raise serotonin levels. In combination, this may trigger serotonin syndrome—a serious condition causing agitation, rapid heart rate, and high body temperature.
• Liver Strain: Your liver processes both DXM and alcohol. Using them together increases the risk of liver damage.
• Mental Health Effects: The combination can cause severe anxiety, paranoia, dissociation, or panic attacks.

Other Hidden Risks in Cough Syrups

Many cough syrups contain additional ingredients—like acetaminophen or antihistamines—that can also interact badly with alcohol. For example, mixing acetaminophen and alcohol increases the risk of liver damage. Always check the active ingredients in any medication you’re taking.

Staying Safe

To protect your health:

• Read medication labels carefully and avoid products containing DXM if you plan to drink.
• Stick to recommended doses and never use cough medicine to get high.
• Avoid mixing any medication with alcohol.
• If you’re sick, skip alcohol altogether—it can weaken your immune system and delay recovery.
• Consider tracking your alcohol intake with Quitemate to better understand your habits.
• Seek help if you’re concerned about substance use. There are healthier ways to cope with stress.

Conclusion

DXM is helpful when used correctly to treat a cough, but misusing it—especially with alcohol—can have serious consequences. Understanding the risks, reading labels, and avoiding dangerous combinations can help you stay safe and make informed decisions about your health.