Security Requirements for Handlers of Pseudoephedrine, Ephedrine, and Phenylpropanolamine

DEA is proposing to require that manufacturers, distributors, importers, and exporters of pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine (PPA) implement security procedures to prevent the theft and diversion of these List I chemicals. These chemicals are available in over-the-counter medications and are widely used in the illicit production of methamphetamine and amphetamine. Based on the number of reports and the size of thefts from manufacturers and distributors of these chemicals, DEA is proposing that these companies implement security measures similar to or as effective as those used for schedule III through V controlled substances. These measures will limit the opportunity for theft and diversion of these chemicals. DEA is soliciting the chemical industry for comments to describe alternate security systems that are equal to the existing controlled substances schedule III through V system.