FDA May Let Patients Buy More Drugs Without Prescriptions 392
Hugh Pickens writes "The Washington Times reports that the Food and Drug Administration may soon permit Americans to obtain some drugs used to treat conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes without obtaining a prescription. They may allow patients to diagnose their ailments by answering questions online or at a pharmacy kiosk in order to buy current prescription-only drugs for conditions such as high cholesterol, certain infections, migraine headaches, asthma or allergies. Some pharmacists embrace the notion that they should be able to dole out medication for patients' chronic conditions without making them go through a doctor. 'This could eliminate the need for a physician visit for certain meds that may have been prescription prior to this change,' said Ronna Hauser, vice president of policy and regulatory affairs for the National Community Pharmacists Association. 'However, there may be circumstances when a patient might need a physician visit and diagnosis and original prescription to start therapy but could continue on that therapy with pharmacist refill authorization capabilities.'" (Read more, below.)
Hugh Pickens continues: "Medical providers at public hearings to obtain input on a new paradigm urge caution, saying the government should not try to cut health care costs by cutting out doctors. 'Patients rely on physicians to provide sound diagnosis and treatment information and to help them meet their unique health needs,' says Peter W. Carmel, President of the American Medical Association. 'Expanding many prescription medications to OTC interferes with that important relationship without offering any real benefits to improve patients' health or reduce their costs.'" Other countries seem to do fine with pharmacists being closer to the front line of medicine recommendations; why couldn't the U.S.?"
Prescription through marketing (Score:4, Funny)
"Ask your Rx Kiosk Today about Effluvium DX."
"Effluvium. For Whatever You Have."
Patients taking Effluvium have reported Dry Mouth, Disorientation, and Spontaneous Testicular Detonation. Effluvium should not be taken before operating heavy machinery, using social media, driving or eating. Read and sign the Effluvium arbitration agreement and release from liability before taking Effluvium DX.
Re:Prescription through marketing (Score:4, Funny)
In double-blind trials, differences in the rates of testicular detonation were statistically insignifcant between the male and female trial groups.
Re:Cue huge pushback from the AMA in 3...2... (Score:4, Funny)
I wonder how many Pharmacists in other countries get sued for misdiagnosing or prescribing drugs...
They are trying to cope with a lawyer shortage.