Texas Lawmakers Debate Over-the-Counter Ivermectin Access

Texas lawmakers are considering a proposal that would allow pharmacists to sell ivermectin over the counter, reviving a heated debate about the drug’s use and oversight.

House Bill 3219, authored by state Rep. Joanne Shofner (R), would direct Texas’ health commissioner to issue a standing order permitting pharmacists to provide ivermectin directly to patients. The bill was heard this week in the House Public Health Committee and remains pending.

“Ivermectin is a safe, affordable drug with minimal side effects,” state Rep. Shofner said. “By allowing pharmacists to dispense ivermectin over the counter, we can assure that proper labeling and dosage instructions are provided so that there’s minimal risk of side effects.”

Originally developed as an anti-parasitic, ivermectin garnered national attention during the COVID-19 pandemic after some physicians used it off-label to treat the virus. Despite being FDA-approved for human use since 1987, federal agencies advised against its use for COVID. This led to significant public and professional debate.

However, state Rep. Shofner emphasized that the drug would not be freely available on store shelves.

“This is not going to be next to Tylenol or Pepto Bismol on the shelf,” she clarified. “This will be with the pharmacist, and they are required to give out the proper instructions on dosage amounts.”

Supporters of the bill include Texans for Vaccine Choice.

Michelle Evans, the group’s political director, testified that the measure would empower patients and reduce fear among pharmacists. “Often [ivermectin prescriptions] were denied out of fear of being reported to the Texas State Board of Pharmacy or Texas Medical Board,” Evans commented.

The Texas Medical Association (TMA) however opposes the bill.

Dr. Zeke Silva, speaking on behalf of TMA, warned of potential complications. “There needs to be a physician-patient relationship any time a medication is administered,” he said, citing potential interactions with drugs like Warfarin.

If the effort passes, Texas joins Arkansas, Tennessee, and Idaho in allowing over-the-counter ivermectin access.