Committee advances bill to allow over‑the‑counter ivermectin for human use amid safety questions

Representative Fettgetter (speaker 13) introduced a PCS to permit over‑the‑counter sale of ivermectin formulations intended for human use, telling the committee "It's nothing new under the sun" and noting the drug treats parasites such as lice and worms. The sponsor said the bill would make a retail option available for people whose practitioners recommend ivermectin and argued it would remove politics from clinical decisions.

Lawmakers pressed the sponsor on several fronts. Representative Roe (speaker 8) asked what the drug would be used for and who would supply dosing information; Fettgetter said dosing would follow the box recommendations or manufacturer labeling and that package makers would be responsible for including dosing. Representative Heffner (speaker 11) asked specifically about pediatric labeling and caps on dosage; the sponsor said ivermectin already is prescribed for children in some lice treatments and that appropriate dosing information would appear on packaging when indicated.

Representatives raised federal‑law concerns and safety questions. Roe asked whether federal law prohibiting dispensing ivermectin for human use without a prescription would be implicated; the sponsor answered that ivermectin is already sold over the counter for animal use at farm stores, and that people are obtaining and taking those products now. Representative Williams (speaker 15) recounted personal experience with animal products and injectable formulations, prompting discussion about liability and consumer misuse. Several members asked whether the bill would require pharmacies to carry an over‑the‑counter human product; the sponsor said it would be an option for retailers and would not mandate pharmacies stock it.

The committee recorded a 9‑5 vote to report the measure out. The transcript records substantial committee concern about dosing guidance, pediatric safeguards and liability, and the sponsor indicated a willingness to work with pharmacists and other stakeholders as the bill moves forward.

What’s next: HB 39‑34 was reported out of committee as a do‑pass and may face additional amendments or clarifying language on labeling and liability in later steps.