Is Sudafed addictive. What are the signs of pseudoephedrine abuse. Can you get high on Sudafed. What are the side effects of misusing this over-the-counter medication.

What is Sudafed and How Does it Work?

Sudafed is a brand name for pseudoephedrine, a decongestant used to treat nasal and sinus congestion. It works by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing swelling and congestion. While primarily used for cold and allergy symptoms, some people misuse Sudafed for its stimulant effects.

Pseudoephedrine belongs to a class of drugs called sympathomimetics. These substances mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. This is why some individuals abuse Sudafed for its stimulant properties.

Common Uses for Sudafed

• Nasal and sinus congestion
• Common cold symptoms
• Allergies and hay fever
• Sinus pain and pressure
• Bronchitis

Can You Get High on Sudafed?

Yes, it is possible to experience a stimulating and energetic high from Sudafed when taken in large doses or used improperly. The pseudoephedrine in Sudafed affects dopamine levels in the brain, potentially producing feelings of euphoria and increased energy.

Some individuals abuse Sudafed by taking higher than recommended doses or by crushing and snorting the pills to intensify the effects. This misuse can lead to a range of dangerous side effects and increase the risk of addiction.

Why is Sudafed Restricted?

The sale of pseudoephedrine products like Sudafed is restricted due to its potential for abuse and its use in the illegal production of methamphetamine. The Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005 limits the amount of pseudoephedrine a person can purchase to a 30-day supply.

Is Pseudoephedrine Addictive?

While not as addictive as illicit stimulants like methamphetamine, pseudoephedrine can lead to both physical and psychological dependence with long-term misuse. The easy availability of Sudafed as an over-the-counter medication increases the risk of abuse and addiction.

People may develop a Sudafed addiction for various reasons:

• Self-medicating for increased alertness and energy
• Attempting to enhance performance in sports, academics, or work
• Seeking a stimulant high
• Misconception that OTC medications are harmless or non-addictive

Side Effects and Symptoms of Sudafed Abuse

Misusing Sudafed can lead to a range of side effects, both short-term and long-term. Understanding these effects is crucial for recognizing potential abuse and seeking help.

Common Side Effects of Sudafed Misuse

• Increased energy and euphoria
• Red eyes
• Nausea and vomiting
• Paranoia and anxiety
• Restlessness and insomnia
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Confusion and difficulty concentrating
• Abnormal heartbeat
• Muscle weakness
• Chest tightness

These side effects can vary in intensity depending on the amount of Sudafed consumed and the individual’s physiology. Prolonged abuse can lead to more severe health complications and increase the risk of addiction.

Signs of Sudafed Abuse and Addiction

Recognizing the signs of Sudafed abuse is crucial for early intervention and treatment. Pseudoephedrine abuse is most common among teens, young adults, and college students due to its accessibility and perceived safety as an OTC medication.

Physical Signs of Sudafed Abuse

• Red eyes
• Dilated pupils
• Significant weight loss
• Frequent nosebleeds (if snorting)
• Tremors or shaking
• Excessive sweating

Behavioral Signs of Sudafed Addiction

• Irritability and mood swings
• Social isolation
• Decreased performance at school or work
• Changes in appearance or hygiene
• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
• Doctor shopping or visiting multiple pharmacies to obtain Sudafed
• Financial problems due to spending money on the drug

If you observe these signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a problem with Sudafed abuse or addiction.

Health Risks of Long-Term Sudafed Abuse

Chronic misuse of pseudoephedrine can lead to serious health complications. Understanding these risks is essential for anyone considering or currently abusing Sudafed.

Cardiovascular Risks

Long-term Sudafed abuse can put significant strain on the cardiovascular system. Potential complications include:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
• Increased risk of heart attack or stroke
• Damage to blood vessels

Neurological Effects

Prolonged pseudoephedrine misuse can impact brain function and mental health:

• Increased risk of seizures
• Cognitive impairment and memory problems
• Heightened anxiety and panic disorders
• Development or worsening of depression

Respiratory Issues

While Sudafed is used to treat respiratory symptoms, chronic abuse can lead to:

• Chronic nasal congestion
• Sinus infections
• Damage to nasal passages (if snorted)
• Increased risk of respiratory infections

Treatment Options for Sudafed Addiction

Overcoming Sudafed addiction often requires professional help. Several treatment options are available, depending on the severity of the addiction and individual needs.

Medical Detoxification

For individuals with severe Sudafed addiction, medical detoxification may be necessary. This process involves:

• Gradually reducing pseudoephedrine use under medical supervision
• Managing withdrawal symptoms with appropriate medications
• Monitoring for potential complications

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is an effective treatment approach for Sudafed addiction. It helps individuals:

• Identify triggers for drug use
• Develop coping strategies
• Address underlying mental health issues
• Build healthier thought patterns and behaviors

Support Groups

Participation in support groups can be beneficial for long-term recovery. These groups offer:

• Peer support from others who have overcome similar addictions
• Opportunities to share experiences and coping strategies
• Accountability for maintaining sobriety

Prevention and Safer Use of Sudafed

Preventing Sudafed abuse starts with education and responsible use. Here are some guidelines for using pseudoephedrine safely:

• Always follow the recommended dosage on the packaging
• Do not use Sudafed for longer than directed without consulting a healthcare provider
• Be aware of potential interactions with other medications
• Avoid using Sudafed if you have certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart disease
• Never share your Sudafed with others or use someone else’s prescription

If you find yourself needing Sudafed frequently or in higher doses, consult with a healthcare professional to address the underlying issues.

Alternatives to Sudafed

For those concerned about the potential for Sudafed abuse, there are alternative treatments for nasal congestion and allergies:

• Saline nasal sprays
• Neti pots for nasal irrigation
• Antihistamines for allergy symptoms
• Steam inhalation
• Nasal corticosteroid sprays (prescription required)

Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for your specific symptoms and medical history.

Legal Implications of Sudafed Abuse

While Sudafed is legal when used as directed, its abuse can have legal consequences. Understanding these implications is crucial for anyone considering misusing pseudoephedrine.

Purchasing Restrictions

The Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005 places strict limits on pseudoephedrine purchases:

• Buyers must show ID and sign a logbook
• Daily purchase limits of 3.6 grams
• Monthly purchase limits of 9 grams
• Pharmacies must keep pseudoephedrine products behind the counter

Attempting to circumvent these restrictions by visiting multiple pharmacies or using false identification is illegal and can result in criminal charges.

Possession and Distribution

While possessing Sudafed for personal use is legal, certain activities related to its abuse can lead to legal trouble:

• Possessing large quantities of pseudoephedrine without a valid reason
• Selling or distributing Sudafed to others
• Using pseudoephedrine to manufacture methamphetamine

These actions can result in felony charges, significant fines, and potential imprisonment.

Driving Under the Influence

Operating a vehicle while under the influence of Sudafed, especially in large doses, can lead to DUI charges. The stimulant effects of pseudoephedrine can impair judgment and reaction times, making driving dangerous.

The Role of Healthcare Providers in Preventing Sudafed Abuse

Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in preventing and identifying Sudafed abuse. Their responsibilities include:

• Educating patients about the proper use of pseudoephedrine
• Screening for signs of substance abuse during routine visits
• Providing alternative treatments for chronic congestion or allergies
• Referring patients to addiction specialists when necessary

Patients should feel comfortable discussing their medication use, including over-the-counter drugs like Sudafed, with their healthcare providers.

Pharmacists as Gatekeepers

Pharmacists are often the first line of defense against Sudafed abuse. Their role includes:

• Monitoring pseudoephedrine purchases and maintaining logbooks
• Educating customers about proper use and potential risks
• Identifying suspicious purchasing patterns
• Collaborating with law enforcement when necessary

By working together, healthcare providers and pharmacists can help reduce the incidence of Sudafed abuse and its associated health and legal consequences.

The Impact of Sudafed Abuse on Society

The misuse of pseudoephedrine extends beyond individual health risks, affecting communities and society as a whole. Understanding these broader impacts is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Economic Costs

Sudafed abuse contributes to various economic burdens on society:

• Increased healthcare costs for treating addiction and related health issues
• Lost productivity in the workplace due to absenteeism and impaired performance
• Law enforcement and legal system expenses related to drug abuse and methamphetamine production
• Costs associated with drug prevention and education programs

Public Safety Concerns

The abuse of Sudafed can lead to public safety issues:

• Increased risk of traffic accidents due to impaired driving
• Potential for violent behavior associated with stimulant abuse
• Environmental hazards from methamphetamine production using pseudoephedrine

Social Impact

Sudafed abuse can have ripple effects throughout communities:

• Strain on family relationships and support systems
• Increased burden on social services and addiction treatment facilities
• Potential for increased crime rates related to drug seeking behavior
• Stigma associated with substance abuse affecting individuals and families

Addressing Sudafed abuse requires a comprehensive approach that considers these societal impacts alongside individual health concerns.

Future Directions in Sudafed Abuse Prevention and Treatment

As our understanding of pseudoephedrine abuse evolves, new approaches to prevention and treatment are emerging. These developments offer hope for more effective strategies to combat Sudafed misuse.

Advances in Pharmacology

Researchers are exploring new formulations and alternatives to pseudoephedrine that may offer similar benefits with reduced potential for abuse:

• Development of non-stimulant decongestants
• Abuse-deterrent formulations of pseudoephedrine
• Targeted therapies for nasal congestion that don’t affect the central nervous system

Improved Screening and Early Intervention

Enhanced methods for identifying those at risk of Sudafed abuse are being developed:

• Integration of substance abuse screening into routine medical check-ups
• Advanced data analytics to detect patterns of pseudoephedrine purchases
• Development of biomarkers for early detection of stimulant abuse

Innovative Treatment Approaches

New treatment modalities are being explored to address Sudafed addiction more effectively:

• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic and environmental factors
• Virtual reality therapies for addiction treatment
• Mindfulness-based interventions for managing cravings and stress

These advancements hold promise for reducing the prevalence of Sudafed abuse and improving outcomes for those affected by pseudoephedrine addiction.

Is Sudafed Addictive? | Clearbrook Massachusetts

Sudafed is the brand name for pseudoephedrine, which is a decongestant (sympathomimetic) used to treat stuffy noses and sinuses by narrowing the blood vessels to decrease swelling and congestion. Sudafed may also be used to treat other common cold or flu symptoms, as well as sinus pain, hay fever, allergies, and bronchitis. As an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, Sudafed can be purchased and used without a prescription. But while it may be an effective OTC medication for flu symptoms and allergies, is Sudafed addictive? Today, our Clearbrook rehab in Massachusetts is looking into this question and the possible signs of pseudoephedrine abuse.

Can You Get High On Sudafed?

Yes, Sudafed can produce a stimulating and energetic high. Oftentimes, it’s promoted as a stimulant, which is why it’s a common ingredient in methamphetamine and also why people may experiment with it.

Pseudoephedrine is also a common ingredient in methamphetamine, which is why people can only purchase a certain amount of it at a time. Specifically, according to the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005, one person can only purchase enough Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) for 30 days.

The conversion of pseudoephedrine into methamphetamine is the most common way for people to get high on Sudafed. Methamphetamine itself is a powerful and addictive stimulant that produces an immediate, euphoric high, marked by side effects like a sense of well-being, increased confidence, alertness, and energy.

Meth can be inhaled or smoked, swallowed in pill form, injected, or crushed into powder to be snorted. The last of these administrations often encourages the act of snorting Sudafed in people who use it to get high.

Is Pseudoephedrine Addictive?

While the purchase of pseudoephedrine was originally restricted because it was often used to make methamphetamine, it also has a potential for abuse and addiction on its own. Sudafed is addictive, and long-term pseudoephedrine misuse increases an individual’s risk of both physical and psychological dependence.

Some people use Sudafed to increase alertness and energy. It’s one of the many medications that are available over-the-counter, meaning it can be used to self-medicate, increasing the individual’s risk of dependence and addiction.

Because it’s a stimulant, many people also believe that pseudoephedrine is performance-enhancing. As a result, athletes and students may also abuse it to increase their performance in sports, school, or work.

On the other hand, some individuals may engage in Sudafed abuse simply because they want to get high. Many people experiment with over-the-counter drugs because they believe they’re harmless or that they aren’t addictive. While being addicted to pseudoephedrine isn’t as severe as being addicted to methamphetamine, it can occur, and it is dangerous.

Sudafed Abuse Side Effects and Symptoms

Side Effects of Sudafed

Although research on the details of a Sudafed high is limited, because it acts as a stimulant, it’s safe to say that Sudafed produces a high by affecting dopamine levels in the brain, producing euphoria. Stimulants are also known for elevating heart rate, blood pressure, and energy, which may contribute to a high.

Some common side effects of Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) include:

• Increased energy
• Euphoria
• Red eyes
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Paranoia and anxiety
• Restlessness
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Abnormal heartbeat
• Muscle weakness
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• Tightness in the chest

Usually, depending on the person’s age, the maximum dose of Sudafed a person can take is 240 milligrams (mg), meaning the pseudoephedrine recreational dose is anything above 240 mg. In addition to using higher doses, people may also abuse Sudafed by using it in ways it wasn’t meant to be used, such as crushing pills and snorting them.

Signs of Sudafed Abuse

Pseudoephedrine abuse is most common among teens, young adults, and college students because it’s a cheap and accessible OTC medication. These age groups may use Sudafed as a performance-enhancing drug or simply to get high.

However, since access to pseudoephedrine is restricted, teens and young adults are now more likely to turn to other more easily accessible drugs of abuse, such as herbal drugs, OTC medications like DXM (dextromethorphan), or prescription drugs.

Someone who is misusing pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) may exhibit these signs:

• Irritability
• Frequent mood swings
• Red eyes
• Dilated pupils
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Isolating from friends and family
• Poor performance at school or work
• Sudden changes in appearance, hygiene, or social circles
• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
• Mood swings

People who have developed pseudoephedrine dependence or addiction may also exhibit certain physical and behavioral changes when use is reduced or stopped, otherwise referred to as withdrawals. Sudafed withdrawal can be an uncomfortable experience that may encourage the person to continue using this drug to avoid them.

If you’ve become addicted to Sudafed and want to quit using it, our Massachusetts treatment center recommends a medically monitored detox. During a medically supervised detox at our facility, patients are under the 24-hour care of our team, during which they may be given medication to alleviate withdrawal symptoms (as needed). This is a much safer and more pleasant alternative to attempting to quit pseudoephedrine addiction cold-turkey.

Get Help for Sudafed Abuse

Just because it’s an over-the-counter medication, doesn’t make pseudoephedrine abuse safe. Long-term misuse of any medication or drug can have long-term repercussions on an individual’s physical and mental health, as well as their relationships, career, and finances.

What’s more, because pseudoephedrine is a common ingredient in methamphetamine, abusing it long-term also increases your chances of experimenting with meth for a more powerful high. The longer you use drugs, the more of them you’ll need to feel just as good as that first time.

If you want freedom from drug addiction, you don’t have to do it on your own. Our inpatient drug rehab in Massachusetts offers treatment for all kinds of drugs, including medical detox and therapy, to help our patients overcome every hurdle that drug abuse throws their way.

To learn more about the Massachusetts drug rehab programs offered at Clearbrook Treatment Centers, call us today at 570-536-9621.

Related Reading:

Crystal Meth vs. Meth

How to Quit Meth

OTC Drug Abuse, Over-The-Counter Medication, Side effects of drug abuse, signs of addiction

Alyssa Valentin

Alyssa is Banyan’s Director of Digital Marketing & Technology. After overcoming her own struggles with addiction, she began working in the treatment field in 2012. She graduated from Palm Beach State College in 2016 with additional education in Salesforce University programs. A part of the Banyan team since 2016, Alyssa brings over 5 years of experience in the addiction treatment field.

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What You Need to Know

Pseudoephedrine is a common ingredient found in many cold and sinus medications. While it is highly effective at reducing uncomfortable nasal congestion and sinus pressure, this drug also has a dark side. Here’s what you need to know about pseudoephedrine abuse and how it’s related to the illegal production and abuse of methamphetamine.

What is Pseudoephedrine?

Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that is used to treat nasal congestion and sinus pressure due to the common cold and other infections. It is also a substance that is chemically related to amphetamine.

It works by narrowing blood vessels to decrease swelling and congestion in the nasal passages. ¹ Pseudoephedrine does not cure infections or expedite recovery. Instead, it temporarily treats symptoms to make the user more comfortable.

Pseudoephedrine is produced in liquid form as well as tablets (regular, 12-hour extended release, and 24-hour extended release) and comes alone or mixed with other medications in combination drugs.

When used as intended, pseudoephedrine is a very safe drug that effectively reduces nasal congestion and sinus pressure. It does not pose a risk for addiction when it is used correctly.

On the other hand, if the tablets are crushed and/or snorted or the ingredients of pseudoephedrine drugs like Sudafed are altered in any way, users may suffer negative side effects or become addicted.

Pseudoephedrine Products

There are many different pseudoephedrine products on the market and most cold and flu decongestant drugs contain pseudoephedrine. Here are some common brand names of pseudoephedrine products and pseudoephedrine combination drugs in the U. S.:

• Genaphed (pseudoephedrine)
• Seudotabs (pseudoephedrine)
• Silfedrine (pseudoephedrine)
• Sudafed Congestion (pseudoephedrine)
• Sudodrin (pseudoephedrine)
• SudoGest (pseudoephedrine)
• Suphedrine (pseudoephedrine)
• Nasofed (pseudoephedrine)
• Entex (guaifenesin/phenylephrine)
• Zyrtec-D (pseudoephedrine and cetirizine)
• Claritin-D (loratadine and pseudoephedrine)
• Advil Cold and Sinus (pseudoephedrine and ibuprofen)²

Is Pseudoephedrine Addictive?

Although pseudoephedrine is not addictive on its own, when it is used improperly it can be. In high doses, it can cause stimulant effects, which may be appealing to drug abusers looking for a quick high. At one point in time, it was available over-the-counter, which made it a prime drug of abuse and experimentation for teens.³

However, pseudoephedrine is most often abused to make meth and bath salts. Fans of the popular show “Breaking Bad” know very well that it only takes a slight chemical modification to use pseudoephedrine or Sudafed to make the illegal drug methamphetamine.

For this reason, Sudafed was taken off pharmacy shelves in 2006. Now, to legally purchase it, you have to find the pharmacist, provide a photo ID, and sign a log. These regulations are a result of the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act and are designed to prevent pseudoephedrine abuse and the illegal production of meth.⁴

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Pseudoephedrine Abuse: Side Effects and Symptoms

Pseudoephedrine or Sudafed causes some normal side effects when it is used to treat nasal congestion. Common side effects of pseudoephedrine use include:

• Restlessness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Headache⁵

When it is abused and used in significantly large amounts, pseudoephedrine can produce effects like:

• Feelings of euphoria
• Increased alertness and energy
• A pleasant tingling sensation

Negative side effects of chronic pseudoephedrine abuse may include:

• Irritability
• Increased energy
• Red eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Dilated pupils
• Problems sleeping
• Weight loss

While pseudoephedrine may be abused on its own, the primary concern regarding pseudoephedrine abuse is that it can be easily altered to make meth. Someone who attempts to buy large quantities of pseudoephedrine products may be abusing it or trying to use it to make meth.

Why is Over-the-Counter Pseudoephedrine Banned?

As mentioned above, pseudoephedrine can be easily altered to make meth. Although pseudoephedrine used to be much more easily accessible and was available over-the-counter, as illegal methamphetamine and abuse increased in the U.S., the federal government tightened restrictions on the sale of this drug.⁶

Once the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act was passed in 2006, pseudoephedrine was removed from the shelves and placed behind the counter, where only a pharmacist could access it. The law didn’t just apply to Sudafed. It affected all products that contain pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine, and ephedrine, which are common ingredients found in cold medicines.

In most states, you can buy pseudoephedrine products without a prescription, but you have to request the drug from a pharmacist, show a photo ID, and sign a log that tracks your purchase. There are also strict limitations on how much you can buy per month.⁷ Although the sale and purchases of pseudoephedrine in the U.S. are heavily regulated, it is not listed as a controlled substance.

Will Pseudoephedrine Show on a Drug Test?

Drug tests can be used to prove recent use of substances like marijuana, heroin, or prescription drugs. If you use medication that contains pseudoephedrine, there is a chance that the pseudoephedrine will produce a false positive for amphetamines.⁸ If this happens to you, typically, the lab can use another type of drug test called a GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry), which is much less likely to produce a false positive.

Help for Pseudoephedrine Abuse and Meth Addiction

Pseudoephedrine isn’t addictive on its own, but someone who abuses it by using it to make meth may have a meth addiction. Meth is a powerful stimulant and addiction to this drug is difficult to overcome, though not impossible.

Pseudoephedrine abuse or meth abuse may be symptoms of a deeper problem, such as trauma, emotional distress, physical abuse, or some other destructive force in a person’s life. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, you’re not alone and the professionals at Briarwood Detox Center are here to help you get sober and begin addressing those issues.

We provide safe, comfortable, inpatient medical detox in Houston and Austin with clinical care that includes individual and group therapy. Our detox programs are individually designed to help you overcome your substance abuse problems, whether you’re misusing pseudoephedrine products, meth, or both.

Admitting you need help is the first step to living a life in recovery. Call (888) 857-0557today to speak with an admissions representative and get help for your pseudoephedrine or meth addiction.

References:

1. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-4908-821/pseudoephedrine-oral/pseudoephedrine-sustained-release-oral/details
2. https://medlineplus. gov/druginfo/meds/a682619.html
3. https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(11)63394-6/fulltext
4. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/legal-requirements-sale-and-purchase-drug-products-containing-pseudoephedrine-ephedrine-and
5. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-pseudoephedrine-1192197
6. https://www.acsh.org/news/2017/09/12/why-sudafed-behind-counter-meth-chemistry-lesson-11812
7. https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/sudafed#restrictions
8. https://www.duiillinois.com/can-drug-test-lead-false-positive/

90,000 NHL players swallowed 20 cold pills at a time. Why else is this?

BUSINESS Online Sports Edition presents a translation of Sports Illustrated’s 1998 material, which tells how American hockey players use drugs for colds that are banned in the rest of the world.

Andy Moog. Photo: Rick Stewart / gettyimages.com

20% LEAGUE

At 6:30 pm in Montreal, fans are buzzing in the Molson Center, commentators are preparing for reporting, hot dogs are cooling in the press box. Canediens Goalie Andy Moog operates according to the usual schedule. He takes two Sudafed tablets and takes them down with a glass of water. Moog does not want to improve his health – it’s just a matter of habit. He was first introduced to the remedy six or seven years ago when he caught a serious cold. Since then, he has used it regularly, as have four other Montreal players. Sometimes the medicine is called “Sadeys”. These little red pills, hockey players say, help “start” the engine and better prepare for the match.

The exact number of hockey players who use Sudafed, an over-the-counter drug containing pseudoephedrine, is not known. Two NHL coaches said that 20% of the players use it – not to prevent coughing, as the manufacturers would like, but to get them a little pinched. The NHL, however, claims that there are far fewer Sudafed fans and they all adhere exclusively to medical purposes.

Pseudoephedrine is found in many cold medicines. But almost all players choose Sudafed to cheer up. This is such a dirty NHL secret that can cause a lot of problems at the Olympics. The drug is legal, but at the same time contains a substance that is prohibited at the Games.

Dependence on Sudafed in the league reaches ridiculous levels. There is talk that one of the players swallowed 20 tablets at once before the matches – the only way he could get the desired sensations. “There are a lot of overdose stories,” says Detroit fitness coach John Wharton , who has been with the club since 1991. – Sometimes people can’t finish the first period because of anxiety, paranoia, dizziness. Some, of course, have learned to cope with large doses. The largest I’ve seen is eight pills at a time. This will be enough for an ordinary person to thunder into the hospital. Wharton says he’s dealt with four to five players on the drug in the past seven years.

According to Colorado veteran Jari Kurri , rough play in the current NHL is caused not only by the thirst for competition. Finn sees a parallel between the increased amount of pseudoephedrine and the uneasy relationship between NHL players. Kurri, playing for Anaheim last season, hosted Sudafed himself. “You are terribly excited,” he describes his feelings. “I don’t know if the pills lead to a dangerous game, but I’m sure the league should look into the drug more.”

Montreal Forward Mark Recchi doesn’t share Kurri’s opinion, but doesn’t deny being uplifted by Sudafed. At one time, he used pills every 10 to 15 games. Now he has completely abandoned it. “You feel energized,” says Rekki. “When you are overwhelmed with energy, it’s easy to break loose and burn out.”

Montreal’s other forward Brian Savage takes two pills before every game around the same time as goaltender Moog. This tradition began with Savage three years ago, during the second season in the league. “I’m not sure what still gets me in,” he admits. “But if I’m a little out of shape, the pills work. ” But there are problems. After games that end around 10:15 pm, Savage can’t sleep until 2 am. “Usually I eat and drink a glass of wine,” says the hockey player. “And only then can I sleep.”

Brendan Shanahan. Photo: Tom Pidgeon / gettyimages.com

Rattle

The NHL should think about such drugs before the Nagano Olympics. League players will play in the best teams of the tournament, and the doping scandal that Sudafed could lead to will turn out to be completely inopportune. The NHL and the players’ union tested players who could play at the Games during pre-season training and continued to do so during the championship. The cost of a mistake is high. If a player passes a positive doping test in Nagano, he will be suspended from participation in the Olympics, and the team will be credited with a technical defeat. If the test passes after the decisive match, the team may be deprived of medals.

An IOC doping control official said that pseudoephedrine, obtained from two Sudafed tablets, would remain in the body for a month. However, as he suggests, in a week the substance will not be enough for a positive result. And yet, NHL players and coaches don’t want to get caught on Sudafede. Montreal changed the way they receive cold medicines – now they can only be obtained from the club’s doctors. True, no one prevents the players from buying the Sudafed remedy for the common cold for seven dollars, a whole collection of which has already been collected by one of the players. But several Olympians, including the New Jersey goalie0003 Martin Brodeur and Colorado forward Adam Deadmarsh didn’t touch Sudafed even when they had a cold. Coach Wharton from Detroit confirms this: “In recent months, we have been extremely careful with Yzerman and Shanahan.”

With Brendan Shanahan , apparently, not everything is so simple. In an interview with the Canadian television channel TSN, the player said that at the All-Star Game he was able to “see with his own eyes whether Sudafed is dissolved in drinks in the United States. ” Most likely he was joking; there’s just nothing funny about it. Team Canada Doctor Eric Babins says that pseudoephedrine leads to the release of adrenaline or norepinephrine, increases the pulse and blood pressure, increases the capacity of the lungs due to the expansion of the nostrils and bronchi. It also stimulates those parts of the nervous system that control muscle function and are responsible for the fight-or-flight response when the body is mobilized under threat. Players say that if they take Sudafed an hour before the match, they feel the effect of the drug after 34-40 minutes, that is, during the warm-up. An hour later, according to doctors, the medicine comes into full force. And after 8 – 16 hours – depending on the composition, dosage of the drug and the characteristics of the body – the substance stops working. Feeling anxious is not the most serious side effect. The pills themselves are not addictive, but the sensations that players get after using them are very even.

Sudafed is believed to have first appeared in the NHL in the mid-80s. It is surprising how little attention the clubs then paid to medicine. Wharton says that in the Detroit locker room at first, Sudafed pills were laid out like fruit—three-quarters of the players consumed them. “In Edmonton, someone was walking through the locker room shaking a bottle of pills,” recalls goaltender Moog, who played with the Oilers in the 1982-83 and 1986-87 seasons. – Sounds like a rattle. So we came up with the name and we were like, “Hey, does anyone want some rattles?”

The peak of Sudafed use was three or four years ago – things began to decline after the NHL held a meeting where they discussed the list of acceptable drugs. After that, a note appeared in the Calgary locker room that coaches had no right to give players cold remedies. Terry Groves , who has been with the Flames since 1980, is certain no one on the team has taken Sudafed. And the coach of Montreal Gaetan Lefebvre always keeps a small piece of paper with him, on which is written a list of substances allowed by the IOC. “We try to follow the rules,” he says. – All these drugs are used for medical purposes. If you want an extra effect, go and work in training.” Criticism of “Sudafed” did not stop all the players. Some simply found drugs with the same effect from other manufacturers. The new pills typically contain Chinese ma-huang containing ephedrine and are available from health food stores. Ephedrine is similar to pseudoephedrine in many ways and can also lead to a positive result in a doping test during the Olympics.

Even if the Games are not scandalous, it’s foolish to deny that the little red pills have become part of the NHL – even if not among smart players. “If everything is in order with your head, you don’t need these drugs,” says Igor Larionov from Detroit. But what if they are allowed? DOPING On Thursday, December 17, the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Committee will decide the fate of CSKA defenders Sergei Ignashevich and Alexei Berezutsky. Before the Champions League match Besiktas – CSKA they were suspended from the game due to the fact that UEFA suspected them of doping.

“SSF” tried to figure out what was going on and answer the burning questions.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Before the match between CSKA and Besiktas, the UEFA official website posted information that Ignashevich and Berezutsky were “preliminarily (before the analysis at the UEFA FTC on December 17. – Note ed. ) suspended for all matches of the national championship and European competitions, as well as friendly meetings.” The fact is that a doping test after the Champions League match with Manchester United on November 3 revealed that the players had a certain “drug included in the List of Prohibited Substances of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) sample 2009year under the category “S6: Stimulants”. The official website of CSKA immediately explained that “this situation arose in connection with the treatment of our players from a severe cold they received while still in the national team.” They were treated with Sudafed, but “made a technical error” – they did not indicate this in a special form.

WHAT IS SUDAFED?

This drug (tablets or in the form of syrup) is used for diseases of the upper respiratory tract, bronchitis, influenza… the already banned stimulant kathine (a product of the metabolism of pseudoephedrine, the main ingredient in Sudafed). Therefore, the dosage of the drug is very important. Perhaps, in order not to play with fire, since January 1, 2010, sudafed again decided to be included in the list of “prohibited substances”.

WHERE IS IT USED?

Team doctor Andrei Grishanov, who avoids commenting on “this situation” in the press, at an unscheduled meeting of the RFU medical committee said that before the match with the Azerbaijani team on October 14, Ignashevich and Berezutsky were absolutely healthy. The CSKA doctor Oleg Ipatenko, who was invited to this very meeting, did not appear there. However, no one needed his recognition – it was clear: CSKA was stuffed with football players with a court of law. Although, if you like, here is Ipatenko’s indirect confession. According to Igor Medvedev, a member of the RFU executive committee, to Sovetsky Sport, an army doctor told him “that the players had a sore throat, they prescribed a drug, they bought it at the airport.”

But maybe CSKA players take sudafed regardless of their state of health – for preventive purposes, so to speak? No, “we are not talking about the systematic malicious use of any illegal drugs by the players of the national team,” RFU General Director Alexei Sorokin told Sovetsky Sport. Before the match in Baku, as well as before all the others, the players passed a doping test, which did not reveal any katin or sudafed in anyone …

UEFA does not give official comments until December 17th. But the UEFA Anti-Doping Regulations, in article 18.01, say that “the period of ineligibility for the presence of a prohibited substance in a doping sample … is two years if this is the first such violation for a player.” However, the period can be reduced if the player cooperates with the authorities and manages to prove that the substance was not taken in order to improve their athletic performance. Then there may be a reprimand without disqualification, and a reduced period.

There have been reports in the foreign media that the army team could be banned from participating in the Champions League. However, the head of the UEFA public relations committee, Rob Faulkner, said that this would not happen. Although everything will be finally decided on December 17th. Moreover, the German “Wolfsburg” is going to file a protest against the result of his away match with the army team. (November 25 in Moscow, CSKA won 2: 1. – Note ed. .).

WHO IS DOPING IN FOOTBALL

The great and controversial Argentinean Diego Maradona was banned from football in 1991 for cocaine use while playing for Italy’s Napoli. This ended his career in the Apennines. At the 1994 World Cup in the United States, Marodona had a doping test after the match with Greece showed the presence of ephedrine. For Maradona, that game with the Greeks was the last in the national team. n The Dutchman Jan Stump, while playing for the Italian Lazio at the end of 2001, was suspended for five months from football for taking the banned anabolic nandrolone (then he was “knocked off” for one month).

Australian footballer Mark Bosnich, recognized as Oceania’s best goalkeeper of the 20th century, was suspended for cocaine use in 2003 while playing for London’s Chelsea.

Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand missed a mandatory doping test in 2003, saying he “forgot about it”. This forgetfulness cost Ferdinand an eight-month ban and a £50,000 fine.

At the end of 2006, Alexander Tikhonovetsky, a Lucha-Energy football player from Vladivostok, became the first football player in Russia to be disqualified for smoking marijuana for a period of six months.

COMMENTARY OF THE SPECIALIST

Vyacheslav KOLOSKOV, honorary member of FIFA and UEFA:

What should the army team do?

– Under no circumstances should one sit idly by and hope for objective decisions of FTC members. We must actively defend ourselves. And in two directions. The first is to invite a lawyer experienced in doping control matters. There are many such specialists in Russia. In any case, Mikhail Prokhorov proved this in biathlon. These specialists must correctly explain the entire procedure for the treatment of Ignashevich and Berezutsky, and convince the FTC members that it was not doping. Secondly, CSKA leaders should immediately fly to Switzerland or France, be sure to meet with Platini and, at the highest level, before the decision of the FTC, deliver a preemptive strike, explain to the UEFA president or his deputies that it was an accidental mistake of the team doctor who did not file after the treatment of Ignashevich and Berezutsky to the relevant authorities of the report on the use of anti-cold drugs. This will help to achieve the minimum punishment.

– What sanctions is the FTC entitled to impose?

– Very different. From the disqualification of Ignashevich and Berezutsky for one already missed match with Besiktas. Or they can disqualify Ignashevich and Berezutsky for two years. As for the exclusion of CSKA from the Champions League, I think this is an unfounded fear.