Crystal meth worries lead to stricter controls on access to cold remedies (Nova Scotia, Canada)

Cold remedies are being moved off store shelves across Nova Scotia, to reduce their use in the creation of crystal methamphetamine.

Medications containing pure pseudoephedrine or ephedrine, such as Sudafed Decongestant, will be kept behind the counter at pharmacies.

Other medicines that contain traces of the two drugs are being taken out of corner stores and gas stations.

Pseudoephedrine and ephedrine are key ingredients in the production of crystal meth, a highly addictive drug.

The National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities has recommended reclassifying the medications, a decision which led to the stricter controls.

Halifax police and provincial RCMP say crystal meth production is not the large problem in Nova Scotia that it is out west. But they said the precaution is a good idea.

However, the province’s New Democrats say the removal of the cold remedies is just a first step in combatting the problem.

http://thechronicleherald.ca/NovaScotia/496502.html