Indiana Meth Laws: Time for Improvements

In Indiana, laws already restrict the sale of methamphetamine and related over-the-counter drugs such as select cold medicines which contain meth. Today, Indiana lawmakers are taking meth restrictions to the next level with the introduction of a proposal that would not allow pharmacies to sell pseudoephedrine without a prescription from a physician. Indiana lawmakers believe this proposal will curb meth use by limiting the ability for meth makers and users to obtain this harmful ingredient.

And rightfully so! Over 10 million Americans have tried meth and 1.4 million are regular users. Habitual methamphetamine use is linked to elevated risks for mood disturbances, violent behavior, infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis, crime, unemployment, as well as child abuse and neglect. So, any laws that would limit the availability of meth are highly desirable to lawmakers in Indiana and the public. The proposed Indiana law can have a positive economic impact on the state. Currently, the economic cost of methamphetamine use nationwide is $23.4 billion, according to the RAND Corp.

This summer, Indiana legislators will examine current regulations to determine if the proposal will fit in with regulatory criteria. Indiana is one of the more progressive states interested in curbing the economic burden associated with meth use. Also, The National Institutes of Health’s National Institute on Drug Abuse has recently granted a request for a $1.86 million fund to be used by the UCLA School of Dentistry for the study of oral health consequences associated with methamphetamine use. This is because a condition known as meth mouth is often evident in meth users who have used meth for only a short period of time.  In this way, dentists may provide a vehicle for the early detection of meth use to prevent more costly side effects associated with long term use reaching the general public.

Vigo County in Indiana has led the cause for stronger pseudoephedrine laws. Activists in this county have requested that pharmacies voluntarily refrain from selling the related medications without a prescription by a physician.

If you are interested in learning more about Indiana law, contact Burton Padove for a free consultation at 219-836-2200.