Where should ephedrine products be located in a pharmacy?

Ephedrine products should be located behind the pharmacy counter to ensure they are dispensed under proper oversight of a licensed pharmacist. This regulation stems from the potential for misuse or abuse of ephedrine, which is a precursor used in the illicit manufacture of methamphetamine. By positioning these products behind the counter, access is controlled and monitored, thus reducing the risk of unauthorized purchases and ensuring that a pharmacist can provide necessary counseling and oversight on their use.

Placing ephedrine on the retail floor, in an unlocked cabinet, or in a pharmacy’s front window would compromise the security measures designed to prevent misuse and abuse. These settings would make it too easy for individuals to access the products without the appropriate checks that can be enforced when they are managed by pharmacy staff.