Tag: Behind the counter

Available since 1946, Benadryl is a household name for allergy relief [1.2.3]. Recent news has led many to ask: 'Why are they taking Benadryl off the market?' The truth is, it isn't being removed, but a major change to its accessibility is under serious consideration due to safety concerns [1.4.2, 1.4.6].

In the United States, specific over-the-counter (OTC) products containing ephedrine are still available, but their purchase is heavily regulated under federal and state laws. These medications, such as Bronkaid Max and Primatene Tablets, are specifically indicated for the temporary relief of mild, intermittent asthma symptoms.

In 2005, the federal Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act (CMEA) mandated that cold and allergy medicines containing pseudoephedrine be moved from store shelves to behind the pharmacy counter. This was a decisive action taken to combat the illicit production of methamphetamine, a highly addictive stimulant that uses pseudoephedrine as a key precursor chemical.

While many people assume all Aleve products are sold on the shelf, a crucial distinction exists depending on the product's active ingredients. Is Aleve behind the counter? The answer depends entirely on which specific version of the medication you intend to purchase, with one common variety requiring a pharmacist's assistance.

The answer to 'Can you still get real Sudafed?' is yes, but it requires a trip behind the pharmacy counter due to federal regulations.

While it is technically classified as an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, federal law mandates that Nexafed must be purchased from behind the pharmacy counter. This unique status is due to its active ingredient, pseudoephedrine, and requires buyers to show identification and adhere to purchase limits.

According to a 2009 study, a single dose of pseudoephedrine was significantly more effective at treating nasal congestion than both a placebo and the alternative decongestant phenylephrine. In the context of this superior efficacy, understanding **what is real pseudoephedrine** is crucial for consumers seeking effective relief from sinus and cold symptoms. This potent oral decongestant is regulated due to its potential misuse, a factor that has led to widespread confusion with its weaker, unregulated counterpart.

Enacted in 2006, the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act significantly changed how products containing pseudoephedrine, such as Aleve-D, are sold across the United States. This federal legislation moved these effective nasal decongestants behind the pharmacy counter to prevent their misuse in the illegal production of methamphetamine.

Worldwide, allergic rhinitis affects between 10% and 30% of the population, leading many to seek relief. So, **what is pseudoephedrine good for?** This powerful decongestant provides temporary relief from nasal and sinus congestion caused by the common cold, allergies, and hay fever.

Ocunox is an eye ointment formulated to provide lasting hydration for dry, tired, and sensitive eyes overnight. This specialty product is not typically found on the open shelves of pharmacies, which often leads people to question: **is Ocunox over the counter** or does it need a prescription?