Rationale for Inclusion of Methylephedrine
- Methylephedrine is a derivative of Ephedrine, used internationally as a decongestant and bronchodilator.
- Potential adverse effects include increased blood pressure, cardiovascular stress, and priapism.
- Recognized as having high potential for abuse based on international reports and scientific literature.
Therapeutic Alternatives Available in the Philippines
- The Philippine pharmaceutical market offers sufficient alternative medications producing similar therapeutic effects as Methylephedrine.
Methylephedrine as a Precursor Substance
- Serves as a precursor to Ephedrine, a controlled substance under the 1988 UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances.
- Presence detected in clandestine laboratories during operations by Philippine National Police (PNP) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), evidencing its misuse in illegal drug manufacturing.
International Regulation and Sports Prohibition
- Listed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in the 2013 Prohibited List under item S6(b) as a banned stimulant.
Stakeholder Consultation and Public Hearing
- Public hearing conducted on May 28, 2013, by the DDB Committee on Public Hearings.
- Various stakeholders expressed support for the inclusion of Methylephedrine in the dangerous drugs list.
Regulatory Classification and Control Measures
- Methylephedrine, including all its salts, isomers, and salts of isomers, along with all compounds, mixtures, and preparations containing the substance, is officially classified as a dangerous drug.
- Subjected to all regulatory and control measures as provided under RA 9165 and related DDB rules and regulations.