Crystal meth fears over Lemsips!

Some over-the-counter flu remedies could face restrictions, amid fears that they are being used to produce the highly addictive drug, crystal meth.

It is feared that pseudoephedrine and ephedrine, contained in certain flu remedies such as Lemsips, can be used to make the drug.

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency is considering making these ingredients prescription-only.

It comes after Health Minister Caroline Flint said police found the ingredients in raids on drug factories.

Crystal meth, also known as methylamphetamine, was reclassified last January as a Class A drug.

The highly addictive substance affects the central nervous system and can cause serious physical and psychological harm.

When smoked in its crystalline form, the stimulant produces effects similar to, but longer-lasting than, crack cocaine.

So it's cheap, can be made relatively easily and a hit lasts for over 8 hours? What could go possibly go wrong?

Cover of The Educator, Spring 2006

WSNIA

Meth Head

Meth-Idemic - a scourge on society

America's Meth Prevention Cookbook

Washington State Narcotics Investigators Association