During the late 1980s and early 1990s, the use of crystal meth surged in popularity, posing challenges for local and national law enforcement agencies. By the early 2000s, government bodies at both state and federal levels implemented measures to disrupt the meth production process. One such action involved regulating pseudoephedrine, a decongestant that contains ephedrine.

Previously, manufacturers of ephedrine meth simply needed access to large quantities of over-the-counter decongestants containing ephedrine. However, as restrictions on ephedrine tightened in the United States and Mexico, drug cartels encountered difficulties in procuring this essential ingredient. Consequently, meth production experienced a decline.