Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33)
For a variety of reasons, our health care system is under strain. People often have to wait unreasonable periods of time to see a health care professional. They have to choose between going without timely care or providing it for themselves.
And yet, access to critical medication is limited. Safe, proven medication is kept behind the pharmacy counter, only available to those who are able to get an appointment with a doctor to secure a more common prescription.
Why would we limit access to important medication when it’s so difficult to see a doctor? It’s already ridiculous enough that people don’t have the individual liberty to treat themselves and their loved ones using effective medication that has already been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Ivermectin is a perfect example of medication that can safely be used to provide important care sooner.
I will soon be introducing legislation that would allow ivermectin, a proven antiparasitic medication, to be available over the counter (OTC) in Pennsylvania. My proposal will increase access to this safe and effective medication for the treatment of various parasitic conditions and ensure that Pennsylvanians are empowered to manage their health with timely and cost-effective options.
Ivermectin is already an FDA-approved medication primarily used to treat parasitic infections, including onchocerciasis (river blindness), strongyloidiasis, scabies and lice. It has a long history of safe use and medical benefits. Making ivermectin available over the counter for these approved uses would have a positive impact on public health and well-being, particularly in underserved and rural communities.
This legislation would ensure that residents have faster access to ivermectin, reducing wait times and dependency on health care providers for conditions that do not require extensive medical consultation. Many Pennsylvanians, particularly in rural and underserved communities, may struggle to access health care due to geographic, financial or logistical barriers. By making ivermectin available OTC, patients could self-administer the medication for common parasitic infections, saving both time and money while avoiding unnecessary doctor visits.
Ivermectin has been extensively studied and used for decades with minimal side effects when adhering to medical guidelines. The risk of misuse is minimal for conditions like scabies and lice, where ivermectin’s topical formulations are highly effective and easy to apply.
Making ivermectin available OTC could also help control the spread of scabies and other parasitic diseases, especially in populations at higher risk of infection. Moreover, it could alleviate the burden on health care systems by preventing unnecessary emergency room visits or doctor appointments for conditions that can be easily managed with ivermectin.
Allowing Pennsylvanians to access ivermectin without a prescription would empower individuals to take more control over their health, particularly for preventative care or minor conditions that do not require extensive medical intervention.
Tennessee has already passed similar legislation to make ivermectin available over the counter. Other states such as Louisiana, South Carolina, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas are currently considering similar initiatives. Additionally, many countries, including South Africa, Australia, Mexico, India, Brazil, Uganda, Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria, have implemented similar laws.
It is time for Pennsylvania to join this important movement. With proven efficacy, a track record of safety, and the growing demand for accessible treatments, making ivermectin available OTC would significantly benefit our communities.
Sen. Doug Mastriano represents the 33rd Senatorial District, covering all of Adams and Franklin counties.