In many parts of the country, you now must be 18 to purchase products containing ephedrine (Mini-Thins, White Crosses, etc), and in some areas it can only be sold mixed in certain ratios with certain decongestants.

Just as well. Heart attacks can really roach a buzz fast.

Ephedrine is also the main ingredient in the street process for synthesizing methamphetamine, which (as the hydrochloride salt) is sold as 'crystal meth'. This is not to be confused with 'crank' or methylcathinone, which is made from Vicks Inhalers and muratic acid, and is even worse for you.