Pseudoephedrine Crime Attorneys in St. Louis
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Pseudoephedrine is a chemical substance found in many over-the-counter drugs, including nasal decongestants. As a result of its similar chemical structure to amphetamines, pseudoephedrine is a commonly sought-after precursor used to manufacture methamphetamine. In fact, the use of pseudoephedrine from over-the-counter medications to make meth has reached such widespread proportions that numerous states throughout the country have resorted to regulating drugs containing pseudoephedrine.
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive controlled substance that can easily be made using household and over-the-counter products. Pseudoephedrine is widely available at major retailers, and is one of the most essential ingredients used to "cook" meth. As part of Missouri's efforts to stamp out the destructive drug, state legislatures have adopted restrictions that regulate the amount of pseudoephedrine a person is allowed to possess. Under Missouri law, retailers are also required to comply with strict regulations regarding the sale and disbursement of products containing pseudoephedrine.
Missouri Pseudoephedrine Laws
According to the State of Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the regulation of pseudoephedrine is enforced specifically, and solely, to combat the prevalence of illegal meth manufacturing. Currently, pseudoephedrine is considered a Schedule V controlled substance and can only be sold in pharmacies, regardless if they are typically considered over-the-counter medications.
Under §195.417 of the Missouri Revised Statutes, retailers are prevented from selling any one individual:
- More than 9 grams of products containing pseudoephedrine within a 30-day period
- More than 3.6 grams of products containing pseudoephedrine within 24 hours
Pharmacies are also required to maintain detailed logs, records, and documentation for all transactions involving the substance. While such strict regulation for seemingly innocuous cold medications may seem extreme, law enforcement agencies take no risks when it comes to methamphetamine drug enforcement. As a result, anyone who possesses more than the legal amount of pseudoephedrine, as well as retailers in violation of the law, may be subjected to a Class A misdemeanor allegation, which is punishable by fines and a term of imprisonment of up to one year. Elevated charges and penalties may also arise if other aggravating circumstances are present, including prior convictions and larger amounts.
Retain the Help of a Missouri Criminal Defense Lawyer
JMH Law Firm, LLC is prepared to draw from our extensive experience as St. Louis drug crime lawyers to represent all parties accused of any pseudoephedrine-related charge. Whether you are a retailer or a consumer facing allegations for a pseudoephedrine drug crime, you can trust in our legal team to support you through these challenging times as we fight for the best possible resolution in your case.
We know that these can be frightening experiences, especially when you had no intention of committing a crime, and we offer free case evaluations so that you can find the information and support needed to gain a sense of control. Contact JMH Law Firm, LLC to discuss your legal needs.
