Is Sudafed a Banned Substance?

Background. Pseudoephedrine (PSE), a sympathomimetic drug, commonly used in nasal decongestants, is currently banned in sports by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), as its stimulant activity is claimed to enhance performance.

What's wrong with Sudafed?

Common side effects include feeling sick, headaches, a dry mouth, a fast or irregular heartbeat, or increased blood pressure. It might also make you feel restless, nervous or shaky. Pseudoephedrine is also called by the brand names Sudafed or Galpseud Linctus.

Can you legally buy pseudoephedrine?

The Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005 has been incorporated into the Patriot Act signed by President Bush on March 9, 2006. The act bans over-the-counter sales of cold medicines that contain the ingredient pseudoephedrine, which is commonly used to make methamphetamine.