Advisories to the Public

ALERT: Methyl Sulfone is Being Used as a Cutting 
Agent for Methamphetamine

July 30, 1999

The purpose of this Alert is to report recent developments in chemical diversion to industry.  It is DEA's intention to provide Alert summaries periodically in order to assist industry in complying with legislation.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and numerous state/local law enforcement authorities throughout the United States have noted an alarming trend involving illicit methamphetamine production. Methamphetamine (AKA speed, crank or meth) is a major drug problem in the United States. We are asking all businesses engaged in the sale of methyl sulfone products to be aware of the use of methyl sulfone by methamphetamine distributors. MSM is normally used as an animal feed supplement.

Criminal elements routinely use methyl sulfone as a cutting agent or diluent in the production of methamphetamine. DEA is aware that these criminals are searching for sources of supply for methyl sulfone. In some instances, distributors have reported the theft of methyl sulfone from chemical storage facilities.

This notice is being provided to:

1. Make you aware that methyl sulfone is being used as a cutting agent or diluent in the production of methamphetamine.
    
2. Encourage all distributors of methyl sulfone to know their customer before they unwittingly become a supplier to methamphetamine manufacturers or distributors, and to report all suspicious activity to your local DEA office of closest law enforcement agency, and
    
3. Advise all distributors of methyl sulfone that it is unlawful for any person to knowingly or intentionally manufacture, distribute, export, or import any equipment, chemical, product, or material which may be used to manufacture a controlled substance or listed chemical or knowing, intending, or having reasonable cause to believe that it will be used to manufacture a controlled substance or listed chemical in violation of the Controlled Substances Act -- 21 U.S.C. 843(a)(7). Persons who violate 21 U.S.C. 843(a)(7) may be subject to criminal or civil penalties.

Law enforcement authorities are asking for your cooperation in this matter.