Committee approves bill to allow over-the-counter ivermectin if FDA approves

Senator Murdoch introduced Senate Bill 2014, saying the measure would allow ivermectin to be sold over the counter ‘‘with FDA approval.’’ He yielded to questions and a member raised concerns about dosage, quantity and the role of prescriptions in ensuring proper dosing. Senator Murdoch replied that he expected the Food and Drug Administration to issue guidance on appropriate dosing and dispensing if the product is approved for over-the-counter sale.

The committee moved to pass the bill and the clerk recorded a roll-call vote of 9 ayes and 3 nays. The chair declared Senate Bill 2014 passed.

The measure as explained to the committee conditions nonprescription availability on FDA approval and does not itself specify dosing, which members said they expect the FDA to address. The committee took no further amendments and the bill passed on the committee vote.