Pseudoephedrine Manufacturers, Kentucky Officials Launch Anti-Smurfing Initiative

Program Supported By Governor Beshear, Retail Community and Law Enforcement

News provided by

Consumer Healthcare Products Association

Nov 19, 2012, 04:12 ET

WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA), which represents makers of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, joined Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear, Senator Robert Stivers, the Kentucky Pharmacists Association, the Kentucky Retail Federation and other leaders to launch the commonwealth's new voluntary retail Anti-Smurfing Campaign. This initiative educates potential "smurfers"— those who buy pseudoephedrine and sell the product to another to manufacture methamphetamine—on the consequences of making an illegal purchase.

"CHPA is proud to partner with Governor Beshear, Senator Stivers and other Kentucky leaders to launch this new program," said Scott M. Melville, president and chief executive officer of the Consumer Healthcare Products Association. "The Anti-Smurfing Campaign also has broad support from Kentucky retail and law enforcement officials. In addition to exploring policy solutions to methamphetamine production and abuse, Kentucky leaders recognize the clear need for a public awareness campaign to inform responsible consumers and meth offenders of the criminal and moral consequences of buying pseudoephedrine for meth cooks."

Law enforcement recognizes that in an attempt to circumvent the law, some hardened criminals approach third parties to purchase pseudoephedrine for them. While some meth cooks may understand they can go to jail for their illegal behavior, individuals who purchase these medicines for others for payment may be unaware that their behavior can lead to prison time.

The anti-smurfing initiative is a public-private partnership that offers all Kentucky pharmacies posters and tent cards to place at the retail counter. CHPA tested a range of anti-smurfing messages and posters, and the research affirmed that these materials successfully educate potential smurfers about the consequence of illegal purchases. The project is co-sponsored by the Kentucky Retail Federation and the Kentucky Pharmacists Association.

Note to editors: Additional information and downloadable files available at Meth-KnowTheConsequences.org.

SOURCE Consumer Healthcare Products Association