EL PASO, Texas, Feb. 11, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- While many consumers have become aware of the potential risk of abuse when it comes to taking prescription medications, a recent article from The Philadelphia Inquirer reveals that many teenagers are finding ways to use a wide array of over-the-counter medication recreationally. Despite the fact that these products are easily accessible and do not require a prescription to purchase, the side effects have proven severe and in some cases, fatal. As an attorney who provides representation in personal injury cases, Michael J. Gopin is very familiar with what kinds of dangers medications and medical devices can cause. He responds to this rising trends in abuse with a word of caution to both adolescents and adults.

The Philadelphia Inquirer notes that many over-the-counter medications are abused, because young consumers try to use them to obtain a high similar to that of street drugs. For example, it notes that medications containing the ingredient dextromethorphan—found in products such as Robitussin and Nyquil—are used to "cause euphoria, distortions of color and sound, and 'out of body' hallucinations that last up to six hours." While some teenagers may look forward to this rush, the article also reveals that the consequences can prove severe. It reveals that dextromethorphan can lead to "impaired judgment, vomiting, loss of muscle movement, seizures, blurred vision, drowsiness, shallow breathing and a fast heart rate."

Although some individuals may use these products in their manufactured form, Michael J. Gopin highlights the fact that some products are utilized as ingredients in more powerful and dangerous street drugs. For instance, as the article states, pseudoephedrine—offers a structure similar to amphetamines and has become popular among individuals who attempt to make the illegal drug known as methamphetamine.

According to Michael J. Gopin, just because a medication is able to be purchased without any doctor's approval, it does not mean that consumers should use them as they please. The article notes that many products can create pose certain health risks—even if the consumer is not trying to use them to get high. For example, the article reveals, "acetaminophen [causes] stomach bleeding, kidney failure and cardiac risks, [these conditions] are heightened when taking large doses of ibuprofen."

Michael J. Gopin notes that while some side effects and consequences of using medications are unknown to the consumer—often serving as a foundation for legal suit against the manufacturer—that it is essential for all consumers to pay attention to risks that are apparent. Gopin concludes, "As a parent, I know how important it is to keep a careful watch on our children. Parents should remain aware of what medications children may be taking and explain the potentially deadly affects, especially when combined with alcohol.  Adults need to take careful action to help protect our future generations from harm." 

ABOUT:

Michael J. Gopin is a proficient personal injury attorney serving clients in or near the El Paso, Texas area. As the founder of the Law Offices of Michael J. Gopin, he and his colleagues rely on 20 years of experience in the legal field to cover a comprehensive range of personal injury practice areas. Michael J. Gopin and his law firm welcome clients who seek further information and representation for cases pertaining to automobile accidents, dangerous drugs, workplace injuries, medical malpractice, motorcycle accidents and more. Texas residents who wish to learn more are invited to visit www.michaelgopin.com.

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SOURCE Michael J. Gopin