At TruPaths, we understand that cough syrup misuse often involving dextromethorphan (DXM) is not about being reckless or rebellious. It’s often about coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, or emotional emptiness. For some it’s about escape. For others, it starts as curiosity and spirals into dependency.
This page is here to help you or someone you care about understand what DXM misuse looks like, how it impacts the body and mind, and how to find real, caring support.
Cough syrups containing dextromethorphan (DXM) found in over the counter brands like Robitussin, Delsym, and Coricidin can create hallucinogenic or dissociative effects when taken in high doses. Street names include:
Robo-tripping
Skittling
Triple Cs
Dexing
— TruPaths Community Member
Floating or Out-of-Body Sensations
Feelings of disconnection from your body or surroundings that may seem peaceful but signal real risk.
Warped Sense of Time or Reality
Time may feel stretched or nonexistent, and the world can take on a surreal or unstable quality.
Euphoria Mixed with Panic
A wave of bliss that can quickly spiral into fear, confusion, or physical restlessness.
Loss of Coordination
Speech becomes unclear and motor skills are noticeably slowed or impaired.
Vivid Hallucinations
Unreal sights and sensations can be mesmerizing but often leave behind lingering distress.
Memory Loss or Mental Fog
Difficulty recalling events, forming thoughts, or feeling emotionally present in the moment.
DXM misuse can lead to emotional disconnection, cognitive challenges, and long-term neurological effects. Healing requires more than stopping the substance. It calls for care that restores safety, emotional regulation, and a sense of self. TruPaths connects individuals and families with support such as:
Clinical treatment that addresses both physical and dissociative symptoms of overuse.
Specialized care that explores emotional wounds or isolation that may drive misuse.
Integrated care for anxiety, depression, or depersonalization that often coexists with DXM addiction.
Helping loved ones rebuild connection, routines, and support systems during recovery.
Both approaches aim to resolve deep emotional wounds but use different ways
For emotional regulation and cravings
Is a body-based approach that helps individuals release trauma
Manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings, alongside therapy
Encourages recovery through loved ones involvement and connection with peers
Provide education, counselling, and skills training to support young people
At TruPaths, we believe that recovery is about compassion, not control. No matter how you got here or how long you’ve been struggling you deserve support, not shame.
Whether you’re just beginning to question your use or urgently seeking help, we’re here to walk beside you every step of the way.
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