Caution on cough syrup with dextromethorphan
PEOPLE'S PHARMACY
Once there was only one Robitussin cough medicine. Now there are lots. The one with dextromethorphan almost killed me. I had such a hard time breathing, I thought I was going to die.
I reported this to my pharmacist and was told that I might be allergic to the DM in Robitussin. He warned me to read all labels on cough medicines from now on.
People need to be warned, especially parents who might give this to their children.
Dextromethorphan, or DM, is the leading ingredient in most over-the-counter cough medicines. Its effectiveness has been controversial, particularly in children. Parents have been warned to avoid cough and cold medicines for kids 4 years and younger.
Although allergic reactions to DM seem uncommon, there are reports in the medical literature of serious breathing difficulties triggered by this cough medicine (Allergy, August 2004). Follow your pharmacist's advice to read labels.
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My boyfriend was recently released from prison and believes saltpeter was put in the food. How do you remove the effects after numerous years?
Saltpeter (potassium nitrate) is falsely believed to lower libido. Youngsters in boarding schools and summer camps, as well as men in the military or in prison, have perpetuated the myth that they are being fed saltpeter.
If time and support don't overcome your boyfriend's sexual difficulties, counseling may help. Hormonal assessment also may be needed.
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist and Teresa Graedon is an expert in medical anthropology and nutrition. www.peoplespharmacy.com
