The salts pseudoephedrine hydrochloride and pseudoephedrine sulfate are found in many over-the-counter preparations, either as a single ingredient or (more commonly) in combination with antihistamines, guaifenesin, dextromethorphan, and/or paracetamol (acetaminophen) or an NSAID (such as aspirin or ibuprofen).
The company currently has 50 stores in West Virginia. The sales ban will also be in effect at 40 locations in nearby states for stores located within 15 miles of the West Virginia state line.
In 2013, Fruth Pharmacy and Ride Aid stopped selling single-ingredient pseudoephedrine medications in the state. In addition, Walgreen's notified U.S. Democratic Senator Joe Manchin's office last about its plan to stop similar sales as well.
Monongalia County Sheriff Al Kisner said, 'The more pharmacies take the stance, that they're just not going to sell it, will make an impact eventually.'
Some local residents are in favor of what CVS is doing while others believe it won't necessarily make a difference.
(This report includes some information previously published by the Associated Press) W. Virginia CVS Putting Sales Ban on Pseudoephedrine .
Morgantown resident Taylor Crabtree said, 'I don't think they should stop selling it. I think there would be other ways they could stop people from buying it for the wrong reason.'
Emma Jackson also lives in Morgantown. She said, 'Anything that's going to cut down on drugs and keep them out of the hands of our children is a good thing.'
Earlier this year a bill that would have required a prescription to buy pseudoephedrine failed to pass during the state's regular legislative session. Police have seized 207 meth labs statewide this year.
