Flu drugs, a crystal meth problem in Britain

Pseudoephedrine is still the most effective over-the-counter medication against the cold or serious sinus congestion. However, sales of pseudoephedrine in the US have been strictly regulated since 2005 to prevent crystal meth makers from using it as an ingredient in the illicit manufacture of methamphetamine.

Well, the UK Telegraph reported that pseudoephedrine and ephedrine are apparently finding their way into illicit drug factories. So, Britain’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (similar to US FDA, I pressume) is looking into a “consulation process” to find if medicines containing pseudoephedrine need restriction, such as decreasing the pack size and making such medicines available only on prescription.

Expectedly, the Great Britain trade association for all over-the-counter medicines is against the restriction. At least 80 products contain pseudoephedrine and will likely be affected, including popular brands like Nurofen Cold and Flu tablets, Sudafed Elixir, Lemsip Max Flu Lemon, Nirolex Chesty Syrup and Actified Syrup among others.

“Pseudoephedrine has been used safely for treating colds and sinus problems in Britain for more than 40 years and we urge the Government not to take disproportionate measures to control pseudoephedrine that would affect legitimate usage and consumer needs,” she said.

As a chronic sinus sufferer and self-classified “legitimate” user, I admit it’s not that easy to get Sudafed these days. I mean, I have to request it directly from the pharmacist, present my ID and pay. Hmm. Even if it were a prescription, an added labor will be to present my doctor’s Rx and wait for maybe, 30 minutes before I get relief from my congestion. Ahem.

I say, “aye” for restrictions. I am not about to share MY Sudafed to a meth lab, excuse me.

[source: UK telegraph]

Tags: pseudoephedrine, sudafed, crystal meth, illicit drug, sinus congestion, US law