Recently, drug regulatory agencies in several countries have mandated the addition of warnings about ‘potential suicidal ideation or psychiatric symptoms’ to the labeling of commonly used cough medicines—particularly over-the-counter products containing dextromethorphan. This decision follows clinical observations and adverse event reports indicating that high doses or prolonged misuse of dextromethorphan may lead to mood disturbances, hallucinations, depression, and even suicidal thoughts, with adolescents appearing especially vulnerable.Dextromethorphan is a centrally acting antitussive widely used to relieve dry coughs associated with colds. It is generally safe and effective when used as directed. However, due to its dissociative and hallucinogenic effects at high doses, it has been abused by some individuals seeking euphoria, posing significant mental health risks. Regulators stress that this warning does not undermine the drug’s therapeutic value but aims to alert the public—especially parents and teens—to use it strictly according to instructions and avoid misuse.Health experts advise immediately discontinuing the medication and seeking medical attention if users experience symptoms such as low mood, anxiety, or behavioral changes. Parents are also urged to securely store household medications to prevent accidental or intentional misuse by minors. This labeling update reflects growing recognition of mental health risks in pharmacovigilance and underscores the importance of responsible medication use.
近日，多个国家药品监管机构宣布，在部分常用止咳药（尤其是含右美沙芬成分的非处方药）的说明书上新增关于‘可能引发自杀倾向或精神症状’的警示信息。这一举措源于多项临床观察和不良反应报告，显示高剂量或长期滥用右美沙芬可能导致情绪波动、幻觉、抑郁甚至自杀念头，尤其在青少年群体中风险更高。右美沙芬是一种中枢性镇咳药，广泛用于缓解感冒引起的干咳。在推荐剂量下通常安全有效，但因其具有解离性致幻作用，被部分人群超量服用以追求‘快感’，从而带来严重精神健康风险。监管机构强调，该警示并非否定药物的治疗价值，而是提醒公众——特别是家长和青少年——严格按照说明书使用，避免滥用。专家建议：若患者在服药期间出现情绪低落、焦虑、行为异常等症状，应立即停药并就医。同时，家长应妥善保管家中药品，防止未成年人误用或滥用。此次说明书更新体现了药品安全监管对心理健康风险的重视，也呼吁公众提升合理用药意识。
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