Methamphetamine Production Shifts from Pseudoephedrine Despite Sudafed Restrictions

Oct 19, 2024, 08:52 AM

Methamphetamine production in the United States has shifted away from using pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed, despite continued restrictions on its purchase. Since Sudafed was moved behind pharmacy counters, methamphetamine use rates have increased and the drug is now purer than before. Nearly all methamphetamine sold in the U.S. is manufactured in Mexico using chemicals like nitroethane and benzaldehyde. However, consumers in the U.S. still need to provide identification and sign a form to purchase Sudafed, which is an effective treatment for nasal congestion.