Are Smelling Salts Legal in the UK?

Smelling salts are legal in the UK. They are classified as over-the-counter medicinal products under the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, meaning they can be purchased without a prescription.

While they are not considered controlled substances, their sale and use must comply with general consumer safety and product regulations. Smelling salts are commonly used for reviving individuals who have fainted and by athletes to enhance alertness.

However, users are advised to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and be aware of potential health risks, especially for those with respiratory conditions.

What are smelling salts?

Smelling salts are a compound typically composed of ammonium carbonate, often infused with a fragrance like lavender, that releases ammonia gas when activated. This gas irritates the nasal and lung membranes, triggering an inhalation reflex that increases alertness and can revive someone who has fainted.

The use of smelling salts dates back to ancient times, with early versions employed by the Romans for their restorative properties. They became particularly popular in the 17th and 18th centuries, especially in Victorian England, where they were a common remedy for fainting, often linked to the restrictive fashion of the time. Over the centuries, their application expanded from medical emergencies to use by athletes and other individuals seeking a quick boost in alertness.

Legal Status of Smelling Salts in the UK

In the United Kingdom, smelling salts are not classified as controlled substances, meaning their sale, possession, and use are generally legal. They are considered a medicinal product under the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, particularly when marketed for medical purposes, such as reviving someone who has fainted. However, they do not require a prescription and can be purchased over the counter.

Over-the-Counter Availability

Smelling salts are readily available for purchase in pharmacies, online retailers, and some sports stores across the UK. There are no specific age restrictions governing their purchase, although retailers may choose to impose their own policies as a precautionary measure, particularly when selling to younger consumers.

The product must be packaged with clear instructions for use and appropriate warnings regarding the potential risks of inhalation, particularly in individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma. Consumers are advised to use smelling salts responsibly and according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid adverse effects.

Use in Sports

The use of smelling salts in sports, while not explicitly prohibited, is subject to the regulations of individual sports governing bodies. For example, the UK Anti-Doping Agency (UKAD) does not list ammonia or smelling salts as banned substances, meaning they are not prohibited for use by athletes in competitive sports.

Professional sports organisations, such as the Football Association or the Rugby Football Union, may have specific guidelines regarding their use. While smelling salts are not banned, teams and coaches should be cautious in their application, ensuring they are not used to mask more serious injuries, such as concussions. The emphasis is on player safety, and the use of smelling salts should not replace proper medical assessment and treatment.

Health and Safety Regulations

Health Considerations

While smelling salts can be effective in reviving someone who has fainted or in boosting alertness, they are not without risks. The primary component, ammonia, is a strong irritant and can cause respiratory distress, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Overuse or improper use can also lead to headaches, dizziness, and irritation of the nasal passages.

The NHS and Public Health England recommend that smelling salts should be used sparingly and only when necessary. They advise against using them as a regular stimulant or as a substitute for proper medical care. Individuals who frequently feel faint or fatigued should consult a healthcare professional to address any underlying health issues.

Regulatory Requirements

Smelling salts sold in the UK must adhere to the requirements set out by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). This includes proper labelling with clear instructions for use, potential side effects, and storage requirements. Products must also carry warnings about the risks associated with inhalation and the importance of using the product as directed.

Retailers and manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that smelling salts are packaged in a way that prevents accidental misuse, such as child-resistant packaging. Additionally, they must comply with general product safety regulations under the Consumer Protection Act 1987, which mandates that all consumer products are safe when used as intended.

In terms of storage and handling, smelling salts should be kept in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. The packaging should remain sealed until use to prevent the ammonia from dissipating, which would render the product ineffective.

Comparison with Other Jurisdictions

United States

In the United States, smelling salts are legal and widely available, much like in the UK. They are often used in sports, particularly American football, where they have been a staple for decades. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies smelling salts as an over-the-counter drug when marketed for medical purposes. However, like in the UK, they are not regulated as controlled substances, meaning their sale and use are largely unrestricted.

In professional sports, the use of smelling salts is not banned, but there has been growing concern about their safety, especially in the context of concussion management. The NFL, for example, has issued guidelines advising against their use as a quick fix for players who have taken a hard hit, emphasising that they should not replace proper medical evaluation.

European Union

Within the European Union, the regulatory approach to smelling salts can vary slightly from country to country, but generally, they are available for purchase without a prescription. In countries like Germany and France, smelling salts are often sold in pharmacies and are used in both medical and sporting contexts. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) does not classify smelling salts as a controlled substance, and their sale is subject to general consumer safety laws.

However, the EU’s stricter regulations on chemical safety under the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) framework mean that manufacturers must ensure that the ammonia used in smelling salts meets specific safety standards. This is somewhat more stringent than the regulatory environment in the UK, particularly post-Brexit.

Australia

In Australia, the sale and use of smelling salts are also legal, though they are less commonly used in sports compared to the UK and the US. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) oversees the regulation of such products, categorising them similarly to over-the-counter medications. As in other jurisdictions, their sale must comply with labelling and safety regulations to inform consumers of any potential risks.