Coricidin

Coricidin, or CoricidinHBP (for high blood pressure), is the name of a drug marketed by Schering-Plough that contains dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant) and chlorphenamine maleate (an antihistamine). Varieties of Coricidin may also contain acetaminophen (an analgesic/fever reducer) and guaifenesin (an expectorant). The drug is marketed as a remedy for the common cold, especially for people with hypertension, whose high blood pressure may worsen if they take other decongestants.

Abuse

Coricidin brand cold medicine is often abused for its dextromethorphan (DXM) content. Since DXM has psychedelic effects in high doses, it is sought for recreational use, but high doses of Coricidin can be toxic. This is because DXM and the other active ingredient, chlorpheniramine, are metabolized by the same liver enzyme. The presence of both chemicals causes competition for the enzyme, and so the DXM remains unmetabolized for longer. Also, chlorpheniramine has anticholinergic activity, which in high doses can cause adverse reactions. Up to seven people have died from overdosing on Coricidin.

See also

• Safety of dextromethorphan

External links

• Coricidin (Dextromethorphan + Chlorpheniramine Maleate) Harm Reduction Website
• The Third Plateau: Coricidin - emphasis on the effects of abuse
• CoricidinHBP Tablets
• CoricidinHBP Abuse Information