DHSS Press Release |
Date: September 29, 2005 DHSS-94-2005 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
Contact: Heidi Truschel-Light Phone: (302) 744-4907 Pager: (302) 247-1560 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STRICTER CONTROLS ON CONSUMER PURCHASES OF COLD AND ALLERGY MEDICINES PREVENT ILLEGAL USE OF METHAMPHETAMINE
On Oct. 1, a new law will change the way Delawareans purchase over-the-counter cold and allergy medicines.In June, Governor Ruth Ann Minner signed a bill aimed at preventing the misuse of pseudoephedrine and ephedrine, which are contained in many cold and allergy products, and can be reconstituted to manufacture methamphetamine, an illegal and addictive drug. Delaware's anti-methamphetamine effort mirrors national initiatives aimed at curbing the increasing popularity of this destructive drug.
Methamphetamine, more commonly referred to as "meth," is a dangerous stimulant or "upper" that is extremely powerful, highly addictive, and often deadly, according to Chief Agent Bruce DiVincenzo of DPH's Office of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs (ONDD). ONDD investigates prescription fraud and other methods used to divert controlled substances from Delaware pharmacies. The Office works closely with the Delaware State Police and other police departments throughout the state.
Methamphetamine is a Schedule II Controlled Substance, and is a derivative of amphetamines, which were originally intended to be used in nasal decongestants and bronchial inhalers as well as for weight control, narcolepsy and attention deficit disorder. Though not nearly as popular as heroin, cocaine, or crack cocaine, methamphetamine is gaining in popularity because of its longer lasting high and because users can illegally manufacture their own methamphetamine using ingredients and equipment purchased in local stores.
Delaware's new law requires medicines containing pseudoephedrine and ephedrine to be placed behind the checkout counters, or in locked containers, according to Delaware Health and Social Services' (DHSS) Division of Public Health (DPH). Buyers must be at least 18 and show photo identification and sign for their purchase. Individuals cannot purchase more than nine grams of any substance containing these ingredients within a 30-day period, and sellers must maintain a written log.
In Delaware, according to the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), most methamphetamine is supplied by local traffickers who manufacture or produce it themselves, or by major trafficking organizations operating out of California and Mexico.
"The new law assists law enforcement agencies in investigating methamphetamine manufacturers," said Sen. Anthony DeLuca, who sponsored S.B. 110 with Rep. Peter Schwartzkopf.
For help with issues associated with the abuse of methamphetamines, DHSS advises Delawareans to contact its Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH) at (302)255-9399, or the Delaware Helpline at 1-800- 464-HELP (4357).
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
