[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]You may have heard the term “Triple Cs” and wondered what it means. It sounds harmless, maybe even like candy, but “Triple C” is a slang term used to refer to the over-the-counter cough and cold medicine called Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold.
The medication contains dextromethorphan, or DXM, which is commonly abused by young people seeking a cheap, accessible high. People may also use the term “Triple C’s” to refer to any kind of cough and cold medicine that contains DXM, as there are many different brand names available today.
When taken in high doses that exceed therapeutic doses, DXM can produce hallucinations and dissociative symptoms. People who abuse triple c’s usually swallow the pills, but some may crush and snort them or dissolve the tablets in liquid to increase the speed of the onset of effects.
In this article, we’ll break down what Triple Cs are, why people abuse them, and the serious risks involved. Whether you’re a parent, teen, or just curious, this guide keeps it simple and easy to understand.
What are Triple C’s?
Triple Cs stands for Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold, a common cold medicine. It’s available at most drugstores and is meant to help people with high blood pressure manage cold symptoms. The nickname “Triple Cs” comes from the three C’s in the brand name.
The active ingredient that causes concern is dextromethorphan, or DXM. It’s a cough suppressant, and when taken in the recommended dose, it’s safe and effective. But when taken in large amounts, DXM can cause a euphoric high.
What Do Triple C’s Look Like?
Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold is sold in the form of round red tablets that contain 30 mg of DXM. However, the medication is available in various forms, including:
- Corcidin Chest Congestion & Cough – red softgel capsules containing 10 mg of DXM.
- Coricidin Maximum Strength Flu – red oblong tablets containing 15 mg of DXM.
Understanding DXM Plateaus
DXM works by blocking the effects of the NMDA glutamate receptor, causing dissociation and a dream-like state. DXM may produce different side effects at different doses. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, DXM users describe four different dose-dependent plateaus that produce varying effects.
- 1st plateau – Mild stimulant-like effects such as increased energy and focus.
- 2nd plateau – Feelings of euphoria and mild hallucinations.
- 3rd plateau – Distorted visual perceptions, intense hallucinations, and loss of motor coordination.
- 4th plateau – Dissociative feelings, sedation, and loss of consciousness.
The dissociative and hallucinogenic effects of DXM can last for up to six hours. Many people who take high doses of DXM report having “bad trips,” which are characterized by confusion, perception changes, and frightening hallucinations.
Side Effects of Triple C
Common triple c side effects include:
- Slurred speech
- Red or watery eyes
- Sensations of floating
- Dream-like states
- Poor muscle control
- Loss of coordination
- Itchy skin
- Dizziness
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Stomach pain
- Vision changes
- Nausea and abdominal pain
- Increased blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Altered sensory perceptions
- Possible brain damage
Other Slang Terms Besides Triple C
Corcidian Cough and Cold (Triple C’s or CCCs) may also be referred to as:
- DXM
- Dex
- Candy
- Skittles
- Red devils
- Poor man’s PCP
- Robo
- Robotripping
Understanding the Issue: Why Do People Abuse Triple C’s?
In 2006, approximately 3.1 million Americans aged 12–25 had used cough and cold medications nonmedically at least once in their lifetime, with nearly 1 million misusing them in the past year.
Some states have enacted laws that place DXM-containing products behind the counter, requiring pharmacists to check IDs to make sure a person is over the age of 18 before selling them. However, DXM is still federally legal and is available over the counter in most states. This means teens and drug users can easily purchase and obtain the substance. Not only that, but triple c’s are fairly inexpensive, so they are easy to afford.
Since triple c’s are sold in stores without a prescription, young people often view them as a safer, cheaper alternative to illicit street drugs. Some people, especially teens, misuse Triple Cs to get high. When taken in higher doses, DXM can cause:
- Euphoria (a feeling of being really happy or buzzed)
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t real)
- A feeling of floating or being outside your body
The Dangers of Triple C (DXM) Abuse
While high on DXM, people may lose control of their muscles and movements–and they can even lose consciousness. This increases the risk of injury, accidents, and sexual assault. DXM abuse can also produce scary hallucinations, feelings of being trapped, and extreme confusion. In very high doses, DXM can even cause brain damage.
Other short and long-term risks include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- High blood pressure and heart problems
- Confusion, paranoia, and panic attacks
- Respiratory distress
- Seizures
- Liver damage
- Overdose and death
Triple Cs often come in red pills, and large amounts can be toxic. Some people take 10, 20, or even more pills at once, thinking it’s safe because it’s OTC. But high doses can cause the body to shut down, leading to a triple c overdose.
Over a decade, 44,206 calls to poison control were made for DXM abuse, with 17 deaths reported.
Taking high doses of DXM on a regular basis can lead to a mental condition called toxic psychosis, which occurs when a person loses contact with reality and is unable to realize what is real and what isn’t real.
Many Corcidian Cough & Cold products also contain acetaminophen, an over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer. While acetaminophen can be safe when taken as directed, taking too much of it can put stress on the liver, and regular abuse of acetaminophen can lead to permanent liver damage and failure.
Finally, long-term triple c abuse is associated with kidney stones, kidney failure, liver failure, and permanent brain damage.
Can You Get Addicted to Triple C’s?
Dextromethorphan is not a controlled substance, however, it is possible to get addicted to triple c’s if you abuse them. Of those who try DXM recreationally, an estimated 33–50% go on to abuse it regularly, suggesting that there is a real risk of developing intense drug cravings and addictive behaviors over time.
Heavy DXM users may experience withdrawal symptoms for about a week after quitting. DXM withdrawal symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Insomnia
- Anhedonia
- Poor attention span
- Memory problems
- Panic attacks
- Tremors
- Hives
Because of the risks and the potential for addiction, it’s important to seek professional treatment if you or someone you love are suffering from an addiction to triple c’s.
Signs Someone Might Be Abusing Triple Cs
If you’re worried about someone, here are some warning signs that may point to misuse:
- Empty cold medicine packages or pill bottles
- Red stains on fingers or mouth from the coating on the pills
- Slurred speech or trouble walking
- Sudden mood swings or strange behavior
- Spending a lot of time alone or acting secretive
- Declining grades or a loss of interest in usual activities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Triple Cs
Are Triple Cs one of the safest drugs because they’re sold over the counter?
No. While Triple Cs are sold as over-the-counter medications to treat the common cold, they are not safe when misused. The active ingredient, dextromethorphan (DXM), has psychoactive effects when taken in high doses. Misusing these cold medicines can lead to serious complications and even life-threatening health problems.
Why are young adults abusing Triple Cs?
Triple C abuse is more common among young adults and teens due to easy access. Many find Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold in a medicine cabinet at home and may not realize the serious risks. Some misuse it for its hallucinogenic or euphoric effects, often unaware of the severe consequences, like impaired judgment, mood swings, and respiratory depression.
According to the University at Buffalo, 1 in 20 teens in the U.S. (about 5%) have gotten high on DXM, the active ingredient in many cold medicines like Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold.
Is Coricidin Cough and Cold the only cold medicine that can be misused?
No, but Coricidin HBP Cough Cold is one of the most commonly abused cough and cold medicines because it contains high levels of DXM and doesn’t include ingredients that cause drowsiness, making it more appealing to those who misuse it. Cough syrup and other gel capsules that contain DXM are also misused for their altered perception and dissociative effects and may cause severe complications.
Can Triple C use lead to a diagnosable addiction?
Yes. In severe cases, individuals who frequently abuse Triple C drugs may develop a diagnosable addiction. They might experience intense cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and a need for higher doses to feel the same effects. Over time, this can damage both physical and mental well-being and require support from a treatment facility.
Is there treatment for Triple C addiction?
Absolutely. Many addiction treatment programs offer help for those struggling with Triple C addiction or DXM abuse. These programs may include evidence-based treatment, therapy, and support in a supportive environment.
Has the federal government taken steps to reduce Triple C abuse?
Some pharmacies now restrict the sale of DXM-based products to limit Triple C’s abuse, especially by minors. While not federally classified as controlled substances, there’s growing attention from the federal government and healthcare professionals alike about their misuse.
Learn About Our Addiction Treatment Programs
Abusing triple c’s can be dangerous, and long-term use can be life-altering. At Moving Mountains Recovery, we take a whole-person approach to recovery by offering a continuum of care, clinically proven treatments, and holistic healing. We work closely with you to identify your unique needs, facilitate individualized treatments, and help you establish a foundation upon which your recovery–and the rest of your life–can grow.
Our compassionate, friendly staff is available 24 hours a day to take your call and help you begin your recovery journey. Individuals seeking professional help for triple c abuse or any other type of substance addiction can call now to get started.
References:
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Dextromethorphan, Retrieved June 2025 from https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/dextro_m.pdf
- Daily Med at National Institutes of Health: Coricidin HBP Cough and Cold Cough Suppressant, Antihistamine, Retrieved June 2025 from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=ee666963-e686-4374-b52b-a677f1cd4114&type=display
- Journal of Addiction Medicine: Long-term Dextromethorphan Use and Acute Intoxication Results in an Episode of Mania and Auto nucleation, Retrieved June 2025 from https://journals.lww.com/journaladdictionmedicine/Abstract/2020/08000/Long_term_Dextromethorphan_Use_and_Acute.39.aspx
- University at Buffalo: DXM (Cough Suppressant) Abuse, Retrieved June 2025 from https://www.buffalo.edu/cria/news_events/es/es7.html
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