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why is sudafed used in drug making

by Kaycee Reilly Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Pseudoephedrine, an active ingredient in some cold, allergy, and sinus products, can be chemically processed into methamphetamine (commonly known as meth). The illegal use of meth has increased in recent years, prompting Congress to pass the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2006 (CEMA).

Precautions

  • Sudafed does stimulate you, some like it some don't but yes you can be slightly high with it
  • Dextromethorphan - dissociative anesthetic , stimulant and depressant
  • Ephedrine- better than sudafed
  • Benadryl - higher doses are deliriants and make you trip
  • Dimenhydrinate - deliriant makes you trip
  • Loperamide - mild opioid, higher doses are euphoric

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Is taking Sudafed everyday bad?

“Sudafed or any medicine that has pseudoephedrine in it, are some of the ones found behind the counter because they’re a decongestant that also acts as a stimulant meant to treat a runny nose...

Why is Sudafed is behind the counter?

Claritin is an antihistamine and Sudafed is a decongestant. They are both used to treat allergy and hayfever symptoms such as runny nose. However, Claritin is also used to treat allergic skin reactions such as such as hives and itching in people with chronic skin reactions, whereas Sudafed is used to treat nasal and sinus congestion.

What's the difference between Claritin and Sudafed?

Sudafed is pseudoehedrine and your body can get to use to it. With long term use it makes your symptoms even worse than they were. Also, with long term use of this drug you may damage your nose mucosa and develop some serious problems. Loading...

Is Sudafed safe to take long term?

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What Sudafed is used to make drugs?

Pseudoephedrine (PSE) is the main ingredient used to make methamphetamine (meth), a highly addictive stimulant drug. 1 PSE is a nasal decongestant typically found in nonprescription cold, allergy, and sinus medications, making it an easy source for people who operate illegal meth labs to obtain this precursor chemical.

Is Sudafed a hallucinogen?

Pseudoephedrine (PSE) is a sympathomimetic drug of the phenethylamine and amphetamine chemical classes. It may be used as a nasal/sinus decongestant, as a stimulant, or as a wakefulness-promoting agent in higher doses....Pseudoephedrine.Clinical dataATC codeR01BA02 (WHO)Legal status34 more rows

Why does pseudoephedrine make me feel good?

Pseudoephedrine belongs to a group of medicines that act as decongestants by constricting small blood vessels in the nasal passages. Thus, less inflammation and congestion as the sinus tissue settles down a bit. It may improve thinking by improving breathing and sleep.

Is Sudafed a opioid?

For all patients taking this medicine: This medicine has an opioid drug in it. Opioid drugs can put you at risk for addiction, abuse, and misuse. Misuse or abuse of pseudoephedrine and codeine can lead to overdose and death.

What happens when you smoke Sudafed?

At high doses, it would be expected that individuals may develop signs associated with amphetamine abuse, such as high blood pressure, sweating, increased heart rate, and psychiatric symptoms like paranoia and hallucinations. Side effects associated with pseudoephedrine abuse include: Increased thirst.

What happens if you chew Sudafed?

DO NOT crush, break, chew or dissolve SUDAFED® 12 hour, SUDAFED® 24 hour, SUDAFED® 12 hour Pressure + Pain as they are extended release products and doing so will interfere with the proper release of the medicine.

What will 60 mg of pseudoephedrine do?

Pseudoephedrine is used for the temporary relief of stuffy nose and sinus pain/pressure caused by infection (such as the common cold, flu) or other breathing illnesses (such as hay fever, allergies, bronchitis). Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant (sympathomimetic).

Does pseudoephedrine help you focus?

Due to its central nervous system (CNS) stimulant properties and structural similarity to amphetamine, it is also used for non-medical purposes. The substance is taken as an appetite reducer, an agent which eliminates drowsiness and fatigue, to improve concentration and as a doping agent.

Does pseudoephedrine increase dopamine?

The suggested mechanism by which pseudoephedrine may improve performance is the reduction of an individuals perceived exertion, occuring in response to an increase in dopamine (Hodges et al. 2006).

Is pseudoephedrine similar to Adderall?

The structural and pharmacological similarity of pseudoephedrine to amphetamine has led to evaluation of its psychomotor stimulant properties within the central nervous system. Previous investigations have shown that the acute responses to pseudoephedrine were similar to those of amphetamine and other psychostimulants.

What is the strongest pain killer?

The most powerful pain relievers are opioids. They are very effective, but they can sometimes have serious side effects. There is also a risk of addiction. Because of the risks, you must use them only under a doctor's supervision.

Is Sudafed PE a stimulant?

Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE) and pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) are two types of decongestants that may be effective in relieving sinus pressure. These drugs work by directly stimulating adrenergic receptors in the nasal passage, as well as other parts of the body.

Is pseudoephedrine similar to Adderall?

The structural and pharmacological similarity of pseudoephedrine to amphetamine has led to evaluation of its psychomotor stimulant properties within the central nervous system. Previous investigations have shown that the acute responses to pseudoephedrine were similar to those of amphetamine and other psychostimulants.

What will 60 mg of pseudoephedrine do?

Pseudoephedrine is used for the temporary relief of stuffy nose and sinus pain/pressure caused by infection (such as the common cold, flu) or other breathing illnesses (such as hay fever, allergies, bronchitis). Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant (sympathomimetic).

Before Taking This Medicine

Do not use Sudafed if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as furazolidone (Furoxone), isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azi...

How Should I Take Sudafed?

Use Sudafed exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommend...

What Happens If I Miss A Dose?

Since Sudafed is taken as needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as...

What Happens If I Overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.Overdose symptoms may include feeling restless or nervous.

Sudafed Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose of Pseudoephedrine for Nasal Congestion:Immediate release: 30 to 60 mg orally every 4 to 6 hours as needed.Sustained release: 120...

What Other Drugs Will Affect Sudafed?

Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially: 1. blood pressure medications; 2. a beta blocker such as atenolol (Tenormin, Tenore...

How should I take Sudafed?

Use Sudafed exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Cold medicine is usually taken only for a short time until your symptoms clear up.

What are the side effects of Sudafed?

Less serious Sudafed side effects may include: 1 loss of appetite; 2 warmth, tingling, or redness under your skin; 3 feeling restless or excited (especially in children); 4 sleep problems (insomnia); or 5 skin rash or itching.

What is Sudafed nasal decongestant?

Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels in the nasal passages. Dilated blood vessels can cause nasal congestion (stuffy nose).

How long does it take for Sudafed to work?

Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash. If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using Sudafed. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Can you share Sudafed with children?

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Sudafed only for the indication prescribed.

Can Sudafed cause hives?

Sudafed side effects. Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Sudafed: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Sudafed and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as: fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat;

Can you get pregnant with Sudafed?

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Sudafed will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using Sudafed. Pseudoephedrine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use Sudafed without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

What is pseudoephedrine used for?

Uses. Pseudoephedrine is used for the temporary relief of stuffy nose and sinus pain/pressure caused by infection (s uch as the common cold, flu) or other breathing illnesses (such as hay fever, allergies, bronchitis ). Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant (sympathomimetic). It works by narrowing the blood vessels to decrease swelling ...

What to do before taking pseudoephedrine?

Precautions. Before taking pseudoephedrine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Also tell your doctor if you have had negative reactions to other sympathomimetics (such as ephedrine, phenylephrine ).

How to use chewable tablets?

If you are using the chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/cup. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

Why do you need to check the labels on all your cough and cold products?

Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergyor cough-and-cold products) because they may contain similar ingredients (decongestantssuch as phenylephrine). Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

How long does it take for a rash to go away after taking a sulfate supplement?

If your symptoms do not improve after 7 days , if they worsen or return, if you develop fever, rash, or a persistent headache, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention. Side Effects. Nausea, vomiting, trouble sleeping, dizziness, headache, or nervousness may occur.

Can you swallow pseudoephedrine with water?

There are many brands and forms of pseudoephedrine available. Some tablets should be swallowed with plenty of water.

Can you take more pseudoephedrine than recommended?

Do not take more pseudoephedrine than recommended. Caffeine can increase the side effects of this medication. Avoid drinking large amounts of beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, colas), eating large amounts of chocolate, or taking nonprescription products that contain caffeine.

What is pseudoephedrine used for?

What is Pseudoephedrine? Pseudoephedrine is a drug that has been most commonly used as an ingredient in the previously over-the-counter medication, Sudafed, which is used as a nasal decongestant. Pseudoephedrine is present in some medications without a prescription, and it is available in drugstores behind the pharmacy counter.

Why do people take pseudoephedrine?

Some people use the drug to promote alertness and as a stimulant. A study from Integrated Pharmacy Research and Practice notes that pseudoephedrine is among other medications available without a prescription that can be used to self-medicate, leading to a risk of abuse or addiction.

What is the law that prohibits methamphetamines from being sold over the counter?

In 2005, the FDA created the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act, which banned over-the-counter sales of cold medicines that included the ingredient pseudoephedrine, requiring them to be sold behind the counter. The act also required consumers to present a photo identification and for stores to keep records of purchasers for at least two years. The law limits the amount an individual can purchase in a 30-day period. These changes were made after a surge of reported methamphetamine abuse revealed that people were using easily accessible over-the-counter medications that contained pseudoephedrine in order to manufacture methamphetamines in labs at home.

How long can you buy meth?

The law limits the amount an individual can purchase in a 30-day period . These changes were made after a surge of reported methamphetamine abuse revealed that people were using easily accessible over-the-counter medications that contained pseudoephedrine in order to manufacture methamphetamines in labs at home.

Why did meth labs decrease?

According to the National Association of State Controlled Substances Authorities, nationwide meth-lab incidents decreased overall as a result of government attempts to restrict sales of precursor ingredients to methamphetamines. The study also found that regulations had some short-term effects on reducing demand for methamphetamines.

Can you buy pseudoephedrine without a prescription?

Pseudoephedrine was previously sold on the shelves at most drugstores. Consumers can still buy products with pseudoephedrine in them without a prescription; however, due to the increased use of the medication as an illicit ingredient for the manufacture of methamphetamines, pseudoephedrine is now kept behind pharmacy counters, ...

Can you overdose on pseudoephedrine?

People who intentionally ingest more that the recommended amount of pseudoephedrine may be at risk for overdose. Read the instructions on the box and take the recommended dosage only or consult your doctor to determine a safe dose.

Why was Sudafed banned?

If you are a fan of breaking bad, then you might know that you can chemically modify pseudoephedrine to produce methamphetamine or crystal meth that is why Sudafed was banned from pharmacy shelves. For you to obtain it, you need to provide your ID or driver’s license. The act was supposed to end or reduce the illegal meth production that was around in the past especially in the US ghettos. However, Sudafed got replaced by another decongestant known as Sudafed PE that cannot be used to make meth.

What drug has pseudoephedrine in it?

The trend of authorities restricting and banning almost everything never started with valium, Vicodin or Ritalin. It began with Sudafed which contains the chemical pseudoephedrine. Are you wondering how to make speed from Sudafed? If so, then you are in the right place.

Why is speed important in diet pills?

Speed also prevents people from getting hungry, and that is why amphetamines such as speed are ingredients in diet pills. Speed can also make you feel panicked and agitated. Some individuals have become delusional and psychotic when high on speed that means hearing and seeing things that are not there.

What is speed in drugs?

Speed is a street name to refer to amphetamine sulfate, but sometimes people use it to refer to other amphetamines. Users describe it as a powerful stimulant that helps them remain alert and is mostly sold as a pinkish powder or off-white substance that sometimes look like tiny crystals.

Can Sudafed be used to make meth?

However, Sudafed got replaced by another decongestant known as Sudafed PE that cannot be used to make meth. Sudafed contains a key chemical used by small labs and amateur drug dealers to make meth or speed. However, it is worth noting that this drug is a banned substance and you risk going to jail or being fined hefty fines if you are caught ...

How is meth abused?

The drug is most often abused by heating it and smoking the vapors, or by grinding it up and snorting it or mixing it with water and injecting it . Meth labs can produce very large amounts of the drug if the individuals making the drug can get enough of the needed meth ingredients.

How Is Meth Made?

Illicitly manufactured meth is usually made by combining ephedrine or pseudoephedrine with other chemicals that are often poisonous or highly flammable. The mixture is then added to a solvent such as gasoline and heated to crystallize. Because illicit methamphetamine production is not regulated or supervised, and there is no quality control process, any number of cutting agents could conceivably be added to the process to dilute the drug.

How does a meth lab work?

The standard process for producing methamphetamine requires space in order to develop a “meth lab.” Meth labs produce quite a bit of waste products and involve the use of numerous appliances, such as pots and pans for heating, stoves or burners, hoses for ventilation, curtains or other blockages so individuals from the outside cannot see what is going on inside, etc. This process can be quite expensive and difficult to maintain. In addition, these sophisticated laboratories can often be spotted quite easily by legal authorities who are on the lookout for them and present a serious danger for the individuals who work in them due to the highly unstable process of making methamphetamine and the combustible materials and wastes that are used in result from the process. Most readers are aware of numerous instances where “meth labs” have exploded.

What are the ingredients in meth?

Additional meth ingredients include: 1 Acetone, from paint thinner or nail polish remover 2 Anhydrous ammonia, found in various household cleaners 3 Sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid, which is typically extracted from over-the-counter drain cleaners 4 Toluene from brake fluid 5 Phosphorous, extracted from flares, matches, and other substances 6 Ether or chloroform 7 Freon from air-conditioning units 8 Energy drink instead of using over-the-counter medications 9 Alcohol 10 Benzene and gasoline 11 Lithium, which is removed from car batteries

Why is heating meth dangerous?

The heating process is quite dangerous because many of the substances use are flammable or corrosive. The methamphetamine is separated from the waste, and the process results in significant waste materials, particularly with the use of phosphorus. These waste materials are also highly unstable and combustible.

When was meth first made?

How is Meth Made? Meth, or methamphetamine (N-methyl-1-phenylpropan-2-amine), is a very potent central nervous system stimulant substance that was originally developed in the 1800s.

Is methamphetamine a legitimate drug?

Although methamphetamine is a legitimate medicinal product and manufactured professionally, most people are more familiar with the notion that the drug is manufactured by private individuals to be abused.

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