Key Ingredient
One key ingredient in the production of meth is pseudoephedrine, which is found in many nonprescription cold medications. A large quantity of cold medication packages or containers is a strong indication of methamphetamine production.
To combat the problem of meth labs, controls have been placed on the sale of cold medications containing pseudoephedrine. They have been placed behind the pharmacy counter. Purchasers must present a photo ID and sign their name in order to buy these products. In addition, there are now limits on the number of these medications that can be purchased. While these measures may occasionally inconvenience some consumers, they have been shown to dramatically reduce the number of small meth labs.
Retailers who sell these products must be certified. Click here for more information.
Other Signs of a Meth Lab
| If you suspect a meth lab in your community, notify law enforcement immediately. Never examine a suspected lab or investigate the premises. Meth labs contain toxic and explosive chemicals. Some labs are even equipped with crude surveillance or booby-traps, and meth addicts are often paranoid, violent and unpredictable. |