Senator Fuschillo Announces New Law to Prevent Minors From Abusing Dxm

New Law Prohibits Sale of DXM to Children Under Age 18

     Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) recently announced that legislation he supported to prohibit pharmacies and stores from selling Dextromethorphan (DXM) to children under the age of 18 without a prescription has been signed into law by Governor Cuomo. Dextromethorphan (DXM) is a substance commonly found in over-the-counter cold medications and can cause serious health risks if abused.

     The new law addresses the growing problem of teens using DXM to get high and the accompanying dangers. DXM is a cough suppressing ingredient found in over-the-counter cough and cold medications. Increased use of DXM can lead to serious short and long term health risks including agitation, paranoia, hallucinations, and death. 

     “Overusing or abusing DXM is dangerous and can cause serious health problems, but many teens are taking that chance in order to get high. Teens should not be able to obtain DXM as easily as they can buy a candy bar or chewing gum. Limiting teens’ access to this potentially harmful substance will help protect their health and prevent tragedies. I commend Governor Cuomo for signing this law,” said Senator Fuschillo. 

     Under the new law, all retail establishments in New York State selling DXM will be required to request proof of age unless the customer appears to be more than 25 years of age. Any retailer violating the new prohibition will be subject to a fine of $250 for each violation. A number of counties in the state, including Nassau and Suffolk, have already enacted a restriction on the retail sale of DXM to individuals less than 18 years of age.

     The new law takes effect on March 26, 2014.