Cough syrups can become addictive

CHENNAI: The local pharmacy is nothing short of a haven for addicts looking for a high, since psychotropic drugs are now available at their door step. Some of the drugs that make it to the to-do list for drug addicts is Alprazolam. Similarly, Diazepam, the chemical name for the commonly marketed Calmpose, which is used to reduce anxiety and mild tension and induce sleep, is also commonly available over the counter. These drugs are often used as mood elevators by the addicts.Apart from prescription drugs, seemingly innocuous concoctions cough syrups like Phensydyl, which contains alcohol, is a major draw among youngsters. Corex, another cough syrup containing codeine, is another addition to the list, say pharmacists.“It is part of a new form of addiction among young women and even students, who often buy these bottles in bulk. It has now become a growing trend,” said Dr S Nambi, a senior psychiatrist who owns a clinic in Luz corner.But, addicts fail to understand the side effects of this medicine such as drowsiness and impaired concentration. Moreover, the prolonged use of the medicine above the prescribed dose may lead to dependency. Even commonly available headache tablets like Paracetamol and Aspirin are also misused by addicts who derive pleasure out of it, said Dr Paliniappan, a senior psychiatrist. “Unless laws are strictly enforced, it is difficult to control this menace because some pharmacists manipulate the stock records to convince drug inspectors,” said Dr Vetri Selvan, a general physician.  With drugs flying off the shelves with no fear of a legal backlash, there is no stopping drug abuse, which is now the norm, not the exception.