CHPA Statement on Missouri House Passing Prescription-Only Legislation

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Consumer Healthcare Products Association

May 09, 2011, 10:17 ET

WASHINGTON, May 9, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is a statement by Scott M. Melville, president and CEO of the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA), in response to the Missouri House passing legislation making over-the-counter cold and allergy medicines containing pseudoephedrine (PSE) available only by obtaining a doctor's prescription:

"Today's vote in the Missouri House of Representatives in support for legislation requiring a doctor's prescription to access cold and allergy medicines containing pseudoephedrine punishes law-abiding citizens seeking relief from cold and allergies rather than targeting criminals engaged in methamphetamine production.

"It is unfortunate that the House chose to overlook the progress made by electronic stop-sale technology, which was implemented just six months ago and has already blocked over 30,000 potentially illegal purchases in Missouri. Enactment of a prescription-only policy would increase costs and burdens for Missouri families and workers seeking basic care, and result in less time at work and school.

"Moving forward, our hope is that the state Senators apply common sense leadership and stop prescription-only legislation that would hurt Missourians, while standing up for electronic tracking technology which we already know is working to stop those seeking to illegally purchase pseudoephedrine-containing medicines."

CHPA is the 130-year-old-trade association representing U.S. manufacturers and distributors of over-the-counter medicines and dietary supplements.

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SOURCE Consumer Healthcare Products Association