Restrictions on Pseudoephedrine-Containing Allergy Medications

Filed in archive Allergy Medications , Hay Fever on April 8, 2006

Pseudoephedrine is an ingredient present in a number of over-the-counter cold and allergy medications. However, this compound is also being used as a starting material to manufacture the illegal substance, methamphetamine. So in order to help stem "meth" abuse, a federal law has been issued, limiting the sale of pseudoephedrine-containing medications, based on the regulations passed by the Nevada State Board of Pharmacy in 2001. And in Nevada, the biggest pharmacies are moving allergy and cold medications behind counters.

Beginning Friday, federal law required cold medicines that contain pseudoephedrine must be kept behind a counter or in a locked safe. The law also limits sales to individuals to 3.6 grams per transaction or 9 grams per month. Nine grams equals about 300 pills.

A second part of the law, to take effect Sept. 30, requires those purchasing the drug products to show a photo ID and sign a logbook.

300 pills a month. Should be enough for the legitimate consumer. Sudafed, Claritin-D and Advil Cold & Sinus are some of the medications affected. For a list of other medications containing pseudoephedrine, refer to this list of restricted products.