Crystal meth fear may hit cold medicines

By Tim Castle

LONDON (Reuters) - Some cold medicines may become prescription-only in Britain to prevent criminal gangs using them to make the crack-like drug, crystal meth.

But drugs manufacturers said on Wednesday the proposed restrictions were not justified and that there was little evidence of the illegal manufacture of the drug in Britain.

Government medical advisors have recommended decongestants containing the chemicals ephedrine and pseudoephedrine should become available on prescription only.

Health Minister Caroline Flint told MPs there was increasing concern from police and the Serious Organised Crime Agency that criminals were using the ingredients to manufacture methylamphetamine -- crystal meth -- in illegal laboratories.

Although use of the drug is low in Britain, the government is anxious to prevent the problem growing to the serious levels seen elsewhere.

The Proprietary Association of Great Britain (PAGB), the branded medicine makers trade body, said the proposed restrictions were excessive.

"Pseudoephedrine has been used safely for treating colds and sinus problems in the UK for over 40 years and we urge the government not to take disproportionate measures to control pseudoephedrine that would affect legitimate usage and consumer needs," said PAGB Chief Executive Sheila Kelly.

Kelly said reducing pack size and limiting purchase to one per sale would be a more proportionate response.