Don't make it harder to get prescriptions

We can all agree that methamphetamine is a terrible drug. Fortunately, law enforcement officials here in Illinois and across the nation have taken significant steps to combat it.

One such measure has been the implementation of a national database that tracks the sale of products containing pseudoephedrine, a decongestant sometimes misused in the criminal manufacture of meth. The real-time, stop-sale system automatically blocks illegal attempted purchases by those who try to use those products to make meth.

And the system is working and getting better each and every day.

Unfortunately, some are pushing for more hurdles for consumers to get the relief they need by advocating for prerequisite doctors' prescriptions for the medicines.

Recently, we got a reminder from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America about why such a proposal would be detrimental to many Illinois families. According to AAFA, the Chicago metropolitan area ranks as a challenging region to live in with spring allergy symptoms.

Right now, there are thousands of Illinois consumers who rely on nonprescription, pseudoephedrine-based medicines to get through a busy workday without having to see a doctor.

It would not be fair to make it tougher for people to get the medicine they need, especially as we're headed into allergy season.

Shalom Klein

Skokie