Posted by PatJ. on January 27, 2001, at 20:29:25
In reply to Warning - Remeron, SSRIs, and DXM *(Robitussin), posted by Benjamin on January 27, 2001, at 19:54:13
> I have been on both Paxil and Remeron at various times. Until recently I had been obtaining these drugs at CVS. The warning sheet lists numerous medications that interact with both Remeron and Paxil.
> Recently I refilled the Paxil at a NYC local pharmacist. This sheet specifically warned against any use of DXM/dextromethorphan (cough suppressant found in all OTC cough medications)
>
> In my younger years I had experimented with the use of DXM for recreational purposes so this warning interested me. DXM is the most potent of the otc pychoactive drugs, but it has not been studied in depth until recently.
>
> The warning against its use with Paxil is due to a risk of Serotonin Syndrome. This is induced because DXM is a potent serotonin reuptake inhibitor
>
> The issue with use of Remeron is due to Remerons unique status as a alpha 2 adrenergic antagonist. These drugs greatly increase the risks of damage called Olney's lesions. They will not cause the problem on their own but DXM and other dissociatives (yes cough syrup is a dissociative) bring about Olney's lesions via a different and possibly synergistic mechanisms.
> Olney's lesions are a form of permanent brain damage in which large sections of brain cells die and waste away. FOr a discussion of the syndrome follow this link http://www.frognet.net/dxm/side_effects.html#toc.6.5
>
> Note I am posting this warning because the doses of cough syrup required to cause interactions are easily within therapuetic levels.Hi Benjamin,
Is DM a problem with SSRIs, too? I take an occasional swig of it for a cough I have. I am taking an SSRI and noticed that after I take a swig of DM (mine is labeled DM not dmx but it is dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg. and Guaifesin 100 mg.-a generic brand-much cheaper!)I usually fall asleep very quickly. I haven't had to take DM on a daily basis recently but I your post concerns me if I would need to. Maybe there are other cough medicines that would work as well. I'll have to check and see. Thanks for the warning and your concern. pat
poster:PatJ.
thread:52711
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010122/msgs/52718.html