Tennessee bans DXM cough syrup sales to minors

WASHINGTON - Tennessee on Wednesday became the eighth state to restrict the sale of dextromethorphan to adults as Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam signed HB0039 into law. The legislation, initially introduced by Sen. Ferrell Haile, R-Gallatin, and Rep. William Lamberth, R-Cottontown, was passed by the Senate on March 26 by a vote of 92-1.

 

“Stopping direct sale of OTC cough medicine to teens is a critical prevention measure, as it will put an end to a common way many abusers obtain the medicine – purchasing it themselves," stated Scott Melville, CHPA president and CEO. "Once enacted as law, this legislation also has the potential to raise awareness among parents and community leaders who are unaware of this dangerous behavior. We hope that this boost in awareness will mobilize parents and community leaders to have conversations with teens about the side effects of abusing all medicines including OTC cough medicine.”

 

CHPA advocates for state laws as well as a federal law prohibiting the sale of DXM products to minors. Kentucky most recently passed similar legislation in March.