Prevent Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) From Being Reclassified as a Schedule III Narcotic

The manufacturing of methamphetamine in the state of Missouri is a massive problem, and lawmakers are trying to find ways to cut down on the number of labs in the state. Under current Missouri law, people can buy up to 9 grams of pseudoephedrine every 30 days. When purchasing the medicine, you must show a photo ID and your purchase is logged at the pharmacy.

That system is still being abused by people who will go to multiple pharmacies in order to buy more than their maximum amount allowed. Last year, Missouri lawmakers authorized a statewide electronic monitoring system for pseudoephedrine-based drugs. However, according to Ron Fitzwater, executive director of the Missouri Pharmacy Association, the system has not been given a chance to work. The system was authorized by lawmakers but never given funds to be implemented.

If the bill were to pass a doctor's visit and a prescription would be required to obtain many cold medicines. This would put an undue burden on many families, not only in time to go see a doctor, but it would also end up costing much more to obtain medicine for a simple cold.

Doctors, Urgent Care Centers and even Emergency Rooms would have patients showing up just to obtain a prescription for cold medicine, thus increasing wait time for other patients with more complex or urgent needs.

The Senate bill can be viewed here: http://www.senate.mo.gov/09info/pdf-bill/intro/SB160.pdf