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Ivermectin over‑the‑counter proposal fails on roll call after contentious committee debate

Utah House Health and Human Services Committee · February 9, 2026

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Summary

HB96, which would have allowed pharmacies to make ivermectin available over the counter (with pharmacies retaining the option to require prescriptions), failed on a roll-call vote in committee after extensive testimony for and against the measure. Supporters framed it as choice; medical associations warned of safety, interactions and weak efficacy data for off‑label uses.

Representative Lee presented HB96 (as substituted) to allow pharmacies the option to sell ivermectin over the counter while allowing other pharmacies to continue filling prescriptions. Sponsor said the aim was consumer choice and cited other states and international examples.

Committee members raised questions about bypassing the FDA OTC switch process, whether manufacturers' labels and prescription-only packaging would affect retail availability, and whether OTC availability could drive drug resistance in parasites. Supporters argued for personal choice and cited long safety profiles for parasitic indications. Opponents—represented by the Utah Medical Association, nurses and physicians—warned about serious side effects, drug interactions (including blood thinners), and that human-efficacy data for many off-label uses are weak or lacking.

The committee adopted substitute language but on roll call the motion to favorably recommend HB96 as substituted failed 7–5. Transcript indicates divided views between consumer-choice advocates and medical professionals.