Pubdate: Fri, 30 Jul 2004 Source: Joplin Globe, The (MO) Copyright: 2004 The Joplin Globe Contact: http://www.joplinglobe.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/859 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine) IN OUR VIEW: TARGETING A KEY METH INGREDIENT According to the Stillwater (Okla.) NewsPress, methamphetamine laboratories have been on the decline during the first six months of this year as a result of a state law restricting sales of common cold remedies containing pseudoephedrine. To that, we say "great!" Getting rid of meth is a goal that society can applaud and support. It is an addictive drug that poses dangers on several levels. The ingredients brewed by nonchemists in garages, basements and even vans are potentially explosive and flammable. Fumes can kill. The byproduct is toxic, requiring careful handling by specially equipped law enforcement personnel. Yet, chemicals from which meth is made are commonplace - antifreeze and pseudoephedrine in cold medicines, to name two of the components. Furthermore, the manufacturer needs no clue about chemistry or chemical reactions, only a formula passed on by a friend or obtained off the Internet. Several years ago, Missouri cracked down by clamping controls over the sale of over-the-counter products containing pseudoephedrine. Despite the belief that the tougher restrictions would send brewers packing, Missouri still ranks among the nation's leaders in meth labs. Part of the problem is that some businesses may find the restrictions expensive to enforce and may not follow through as much as possible. That is only a surmise based on the continuing popularity of meth. Oklahomans have discovered that their new law, which requires that the purchaser of pseudoephedrine products sign for them, has reduced the number of meth labs operating in the state. So far, says the NewsPress, the decrease in the number of labs has saved the state $434,000 in cleanup costs. We would add, too, that it is likely that the human cost of meth addiction has been reduced, too. So far, so good. Kansans reportedly are concerned that their state may be viewed as friendlier territory by meth-making Oklahomans seeking access to products containing the basic ingredient. They have good reason. When availability of needed chemicals dries up, manufacturers will move to keep their illegal, but lucrative, businesses going. There is no simple solution to the meth problem. As long as people are willing to pay for illegal drugs, other people will eagerly try to meet the demand. States should work together to toughen laws and increase vigilance against meth. The best solution is education. Using meth is like playing a game of Russian roulette with three cylinders of a revolver loaded. The only winners are the manufacturers and dealers who make money. - --- MAP posted-by: Josh