NACDS To Congress: Safeguard Legitimate DXM Use, Take Hard Line On Trafficking, Abuse

Main Category: Pharma Industry / Biotech Industry
Also Included In: Pharmacy / Pharmacist
Article Date: 17 Oct 2007 - 11:00 PDT

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Last night's House of Representatives passage of the "Dextromethorphan Distribution Act of 2007," H.R. 970, is an important step toward preserving the availability of a safe and effective ingredient in over-the-counter cough and cold products, while preventing the sale and use of dextromethorphan (DXM) as a street drug, according to the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS).

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI) and Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA), would allow the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to regulate the sale of unfinished (powdered or bulk) DXM, and seek to cut off the supply of pure DXM to those who intend to sell it as a street drug, or purchase it online to get high themselves. The bill would limit the distribution of unfinished DXM only to those individuals or entities registered by the FDA. On that point, NACDS would opt for the approach of Senate companion legislation, which would maintain the availability of bulk DXM to pharmacies for use in compounding. In compounding, drugs are tailor-made to meet a patient's needs.

"NACDS and its members are committed to the health of communities. This involves maintaining access to necessary medication and preventing the devastation and tragedy of the drug trade and drug abuse. We commend Rep. Upton and Rep. Larsen for their commitment to this issue, and we will work with them, as well as Sen. Joe Biden (D-DE) and Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), and other Congressional leaders, to facilitate good public policy on this important issue," said NACDS President and CEO Steven C. Anderson, IOM, CAE.

NACDS' work on this issue demonstrates a commitment to three stated priorities of the Association: maintaining and advancing the ability of pharmacies to serve patients as an integral part of the health care system, preventing drug abuse, and engaging on issues of importance to both the pharmacy and front-end operations of NACDS members.

To become law, the legislation will need to be passed by the House of Representatives and Senate in identical form, and be signed by the President.

http://www.nacds.org