Choking off meth

Efforts to restrict access to a key ingredient in methamphetamine, a viciously addictive drug manufactured in makeshift labs from chemicals obtained from other products, are widening.

In recent months several Missouri cities have adopted ordinances requiring prescriptions for over-the-counter cold and allergy medications containing pseudoephedrine. Jefferson County, Mo., recently became the first in the nation to adopt a countywide requirement for a prescription. Oregon is the only state that requires a prescription statewide.

In 2004, when Oregon passed its restrictive legislation, the state was one of the top 10 in the nation for meth lab busts. In 2008, only two meth labs were raided.

A 2008 law in Missouri to require statewide electronic monitoring of pseudoephedrine sales has been stymied by a lack of funds.

State Rep. Scott Lipke of Jackson has again introduced legislation to impose a statewide requirement for pseudoephedrine prescriptions. State Rep. Jeff Roorda of Barnhart, Mo., is pushing for similar requirements.

It appears that limiting access to pseudoephedrine-containing products puts a big dent in meth production. The unfortunate down side is the inconvenience for cold and allergy sufferers who benefit from such products.