In the midst of this year's cold season, it may prove more difficult to buy medicine for sore throats and runny noses.

Consumers must purchase medicines containing pseudoephedrine as a regulated over-the-counter drug.

A prescription is not required for purchase of such medicines, however, due to state and federal regulations, drugs such as Sudafed, Contac and PediaCare must be purchased behind the pharmacy counter.

This precaution exists as a byproduct of methamphetamine use, which has increased across the nation and in the Boone area.

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