CHPA Applauds Wisconsin's Adoption of Real-Time, Stop-Sale Technology to Prevent Illegal Sales of Pseudoephedrine

WASHINGTON, Dec. 4, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) applauds the state of Wisconsin for becoming the 34(th) state to adopt the real-time, stop-sale technology called the National Precursor Log Exchange (NPLEx), a blocking system used by retailers across the country which prevents the illegal sale of pseudoephedrine (PSE), an ingredient some criminals try to use in the production of methamphetamine. Aside from blocking illegal sales at the pharmacy counter, the NPLEx system provides law enforcement with valuable, real-time data on potential criminal activity. The legislation - sponsored by State Representative Cody Horlacher and former State Senator Sheila Harsdorf - was signed by Governor Scott Walker on November 30, 2017.

NPLEx is a proven tool in the fight against PSE diversion across the country. The system helps to prevent purchases by potential meth criminals while protecting law-abiding consumers' access to safe and effective medicines containing PSE, such as Advil Cold & Sinus, Allegra-D, Claritin-D, Mucinex D, and Sudafed. With its adoption of NPLEx, Wisconsin joins neighboring states Illinois and Michigan, both of which adopted the system in previous years.

"Our state is deeply committed to effectively addressing the methamphetamine problem using proven solutions," said Wisconsin State Representative, Cody Horlacher. "The adoption of the NPLEx system here in Wisconsin embodies that commitment, and represents a giant step towards providing law enforcement and pharmacists - those serving on the front line - with the tools and resources they need to curb meth production at home, all while protecting law-abiding citizens' access to the medicines they rely on."

The announcement comes on the heels of a recent report from the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators (NADDI) showing that so far in 2017, between January 1 and September 30, NPLEx has blocked the illegal sale of 959,580 boxes of medicine containing PSE, keeping 2,504,819 grams of PSE out of the hands of criminals.

About the Consumer Healthcare Products Association

The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) is the 136-year-old national trade association representing the leading manufacturers and marketers of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and dietary supplements. Every dollar spent by consumers on OTC medicines saves the U.S. healthcare system $6-7, contributing a total of $102 billion in savings each year. CHPA is committed to empowering self-care by preserving and expanding choice and availability of consumer healthcare products.

www.chpa.org

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SOURCE Consumer Healthcare Products Association