Wellington, Oct 8 NZPA - Restrictions on the sale of over-the-counter cold and flu tablets containing pseudoephedrine are expected to be announced by Prime Minister John Key today.

Mr Key's chief science adviser, Professor Sir Peter Gluckman, delivered a report recommending a ban on pseudoephedrine cold pills -- used to make the drug "P".

Cabinet considered the report and newspapers today reported that Mr Key is expected to announce a decision at a speech in Auckland this afternoon.

The cold and flu tablets may become prescription only.

Pills containing alternative ingredient phenylephrine would continue to be available.

Mr Key is likely to announce other measures to restrict access to pseudoephedrine, including tougher customs controls, focusing on gangs who deal drugs and rehabilitation.