New Hampshire committee discusses making ivermectin available over the counter

The New Hampshire House Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss the potential for making ivermectin available over the counter. The meeting highlighted a range of opinions on the safety and efficacy of the drug, which has been used globally for decades to treat parasitic infections.

Proponents of the bill argued that ivermectin has a long history of safe use, citing its inclusion on the World Health Organization's list of essential medicines and its Nobel Prize-winning status for its role in combating diseases like river blindness. They emphasized that making ivermectin available without a prescription would empower individuals to manage their health and alleviate pressure on healthcare providers. Supporters pointed out that other states, such as Tennessee and Arkansas, have already passed similar legislation, and they urged New Hampshire to follow suit.

Opponents, including medical professionals and pharmacists, raised concerns about the implications of allowing pharmacists to dispense ivermectin without a prescription. They argued that the drug's safety profile, while generally favorable, does not warrant its over-the-counter status due to potential risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and those with certain health conditions. They emphasized the importance of the patient-provider relationship in prescribing practices and cautioned against legislating specific medications.

The discussion also touched on the financial implications of the bill, with estimates suggesting that it could save the state approximately $9 million. However, some committee members expressed concerns that amendments to the bill could jeopardize these savings.

As the committee deliberates, the future of ivermectin's availability in New Hampshire remains uncertain, with ongoing debates about public health, personal freedom, and the role of legislative action in medical practices. The committee is expected to continue reviewing the evidence and testimonies before making a decision on the proposed legislation.