Southern Alberta police issue warning over cough syrup thefts

The Taber Police Service's police chief has issued a public advisory over an increase in thefts of cough syrup and incidents involving residents who have abused the drug. (Pexels/cottonbro studio)

Authorities in Taber, Alta., have issued a public warning about the increased theft of dextromethorphan – better known as cough syrup – in the community.

The Taber Police Service says its members have also been responding to an increased number of calls related to abuse of the over-the-counter medication.

“Abuse of dextromethorphan (DXM), an ingredient found in many over-the-counter cough medicines, poses serious health risks, particularly among youth,” said Dr. Graham Abela, Taber’s police chief, in a statement on Thursday.

“While safe when taken as directed, consuming excessive amounts can lead to significant physical and psychological harm.”

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Because of the dangers associated with DXM, Taber police are asking retailers to consider moving their supplies of products containing the drug behind the counter and possibly limit sales to adults.

However, police are aware that while these measures can help in the community, DXM products can be sourced elsewhere, including from online retailers.

“Possession of DXM, even in the quantities we are describing, is not illegal. As a result, police have limited legal authority to intervene solely based on possession,” Abela said.

Police also want the public to know more about the warning signs of anyone suffering from cough syrup abuse.

Symptoms include a rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, extreme dizziness, nausea, vomiting, loss of coordination and seizures.

Individuals may also experience intense confusion, paranoia, panic attacks, hallucinations or a complete loss of contact with reality.

“Many DXM-containing products also include other ingredients such as acetaminophen; ingesting large quantities can result in permanent liver damage or liver failure,” Abela said.

“In severe cases, overdose can be fatal or cause long-term neurological complications.”

Other signs of cough syrup abuse include physical signs in the community, Taber police said.

“Physical evidence may include discarded cough medicine bottles or packaging found in unusual places or large quantities of medication missing from the home,” he said.

Families are also asked to monitor the behaviour of their children, which can include shifts in peer groups, altered sleep patterns, declining school performance, withdrawal from family activities or loss of interest in regular activities.

“The Taber Police Service encourages parents and guardians to monitor medications in the home, have open conversations with youth about substance misuse, and report suspicious theft activity to police,” Abela said.

“In the event of a medical emergency, including seizures, difficulty breathing, or unconsciousness, call 911 immediately.”