Arkansas House passes bill to align with FDA on specialty compounding pharmacies

The Public Health, Welfare and Labor Committee of the Arkansas Senate convened on April 9, 2025, to discuss several key legislative matters, including House Bill 18. This bill addresses the operations of specialty compounding pharmacies, which are specifically licensed and regulated by the FDA to produce medications that are either no longer manufactured or are in short supply.

The committee highlighted that historically, these specialty compounding pharmacies were prohibited from selling their products to retail pharmacies for patient dispensing. However, a recent change in FDA guidance now permits these pharmacies to sell compounded medications to pharmacies, provided there is a valid prescription. House Bill 18 aims to align Arkansas state law with this updated FDA guidance, which has already been adopted by numerous other states.

Supporters of the bill emphasized that it would enable Arkansas residents to access necessary compounded medications, potentially reducing costs for patients. It is important to note that this legislation applies only to medications that are not commercially available and are listed on the FDA's shortage list. The Arkansas Pharmacy Association has expressed its support for the bill, indicating a consensus among pharmacy professionals regarding the need for this legislative change.

The committee's discussions underscored the importance of adapting state regulations to federal guidelines to ensure that constituents can benefit from available healthcare options. Further steps will be taken to advance House Bill 18 through the legislative process.