Legislation That Would Ban Sales Of Cold Medicine To Teenagers Makes Progress

CRANFORD, N.J. (CBS 2) – Proposed legislation that would ban the sale of some brands of cough and cold medicines to kids under the age of 18 is making progress in New Jersey.

The New Jersey State Assembly and Public Safety Committee have advanced the bill, which they say would prevent the abuse of the cough suppressants by teenagers.

So far, residents are agreeing with the legislation.

"If it's harmful to children, it's better to monitor and regulate it," Stacey Goldfarb, of Paramus, said.

The concern is with the ingredient dextromethorphan, also known as dm. The ingredient is in medicines like Nyquil, Robitussin and Dimetapp, all of which are easily available and cheap.

Under the proposal, pharmacists would have to keep these medicines behind the counter and ask for identification. If they fail to check, they could face fines of up to $750.

Rao Panuganti, a pharmacist in New Jersey, has mixed reactions.

"It's more paperwork and more documentation," he said. "In one way it's good but other ways they're putting pressure on pharmacist to document."

However, he did say it was possible for the drug to be abused. Lawmakers say these products are becoming more popular than other drugs like ecstasy, sending more teens to the emergency room.

Damon Gasparine, of Paramus, said he supports the legislation.

"Kids tend to abuse such things, and I have seen plenty of it," he said. "I work with kids and I have seen them get out of control."

What do you think about the proposed legislation? Tell us your thoughts in our comments section below.