SPRINGFIELD – Working toward expanded health care access for essential treatments, State Senator Laura Ellman passed a law to give patients and pharmacies clarity regarding restrictions on medication containing ephedrine.

“Ephedrine medication may be necessary for patients with common health issues, like allergies or low blood pressure,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “Patients and pharmacies should be confident in their decision to take and prescribe necessary medications without fear of breaking the law.”

Addressing previous restrictions on ephedrine products that are marketed to enhance stimulation, mental alertness, weight loss, appetite control, muscle enhancement, and energy, Ellman’s new law ensures these restrictions do not apply to ephedrine medications prescribed by a licensed physician for a legitimate medical reason.

“Expanding access to health care means putting patients and providers first,” said Ellman. “This new law empowers providers to make the appropriate medical decisions for their patients, rather than taking that authority away.”

House Bill 2874 was signed into law Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2026.