New multi-state registry for drugs with pseudoephedrine now the law in OK

One of the new laws that went into effect Jan. 1 is a requirement for pharmacists to enter the sale of medications containing pseudoephedrine into a new multi-state registry.

Previously, Oklahoma had its own registry, as did many states, but the different registries could not be cross-checked.

That loophole allowed people to simply cross state lines to double, triple, even quadruple the amount of pseudoephedrine they could obtain.

That, in turn, allowed them to make more methamphetamine.

Now, Oklahoma pharmacies must participate in a multi-state registry, which should help track people who try to skirt the system.

Seventeen states already participate, including Oklahoma.

Pharmacist Katy Jones at GenScripts, near E. 41st St. and S. Hudson Ave., tells KRMG she favors the idea.

"We're always in favor of anything that makes things safer for people, make it harder for people  to make meth, so I'm for it.

At GenScripts, though, they don't sell medications containing pseudoephedrine.

They recommend those that contain phenylephrine, and say for most patients it works effectively.

Phenylephrine-based products can't be made into meth and can be sold over the counter.