Hayden, Idaho — A pharmacy co-owned by a local lawmaker is one of the few in the state selling ivermectin over the counter, following a new law that allows such sales. The move comes amid ongoing debates regarding the drug’s legality and safety, especially after its heightened visibility during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ivermectin, an anti-parasitic commonly used for both humans and animals, has sparked significant interest since the pandemic began. Despite its popularity as a treatment for COVID-19, the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not endorse its use for the virus, pointing to a lack of supporting clinical data.
The law, known as Senate Bill 1121, was co-sponsored by Rep. Jordan Redman, a Republican from Coeur d’Alene, and took effect on April 14 after being signed by Governor Brad Little. This legislation positions Idaho alongside only two other states in permitting the drug’s over-the-counter sale. Redman’s pharmacy, Medicine Man Prairie Pharmacy, began offering compounded ivermectin without a prescription as of late May.
However, legal complexities arise from existing administrative rules that may complicate the sale of compounded medications without a prescription in Idaho. Bob McLaughlin, a spokesperson for the Idaho Board of Pharmacy, clarified that state regulations typically mandate a prescription for compounded drugs. Any potential violations would only be investigated if a formal complaint is submitted.
Redman remains optimistic about the law’s flexibility, arguing that it was designed to ensure access to human-grade ivermectin for Idaho residents. He expressed concerns about some shoppers seeking ivermectin from animal feed stores and potentially misusing doses intended for larger animals.
The bill clearly states that ivermectin suitable for human use can be bought or sold over the counter without necessitating a prescription or consultation with a healthcare professional. However, the precise legal interpretation of this regulation is complex, as highlighted by Korey Kreider, Redman’s co-owner at the pharmacy. Kreider pointed out instances where pharmacies do dispense compounded medications without a prescription, such as customized versions of common pain relievers.
Many pharmacies are still hesitant to follow suit, citing federal and state regulations as significant barriers. According to Matthew Murray, who leads operations at Customedica Pharmacy, their current policy still restricts the sale of ivermectin to prescription-only due to the lack of clear guidelines and concerns surrounding proper labeling. Murray suggested that new legislation may be necessary to fully authorize over-the-counter sales of compounded medications.
Pharmacies like Hells Canyon Pharmacy in Lewiston have adopted a cautious stance, offering ivermectin exclusively with a prescription, emphasizing the importance of accurate labeling. The Idaho Board of Pharmacy has placed guidance on its website indicating that prescription-grade ivermectin packages lack direction for off-label usage.
As the landscape of medication sales in Idaho continues to evolve, local pharmacies are navigating the nuances of the law while striving to meet public demand. They are seeking ways to comply with regulations while ensuring patients have access to safe, effective medications.
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