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Committee advances bill to allow over-the-counter ivermectin sales after divided debate
Summary
S 1211, which would allow sale and purchase of ivermectin without a prescription, advanced out of committee after a roll call vote; supporters argued for OTC access while pharmacists warned that no OTC labeling exists and that the drug has significant interactions.
The Senate State Affairs Committee advanced S 1211 on April 2, 2025, a bill that would permit the sale and purchase of ivermectin without a prescription or consultation with a health care professional.
Sponsor Senator Anthon summarized international uses of ivermectin and argued it is cost-effective and safe for over-the-counter availability. He acknowledged the bill would legalize OTC sale but not require retailers to sell the product.
During questioning, Vice Chairman Bernt and Senator Ruchti raised concerns about the lack of medical input in the record. Testimony reflected that split: Brian Festa supported following other states’ examples and making ivermectin available OTC, while Pam Eaton, representing the Idaho State Pharmacy Association and the Idaho Retailers Association, said nearly all Idaho pharmacists opposed the bill. Eaton told the committee that "Safe OTC usage depended on adherence to the manufacturer's OTC label, which did not exist," and warned that ivermectin "had serious interactions with five medications and required close monitoring with 51." She added that without OTC labeling pharmacists could not safely advise customers and noted timelines for manufacturers to produce labeled OTC packaging were uncertain.
Senator Shippy moved the do-pass recommendation. On the roll call, Senators Shippy, Harris, Den Hartog and Anthon voted aye; Senators Ruchti, Vice Chairman Bernt and Chairman Guthrie voted nay. Senators Adams and Toews were absent and excused. The motion carried.
Committee members emphasized timing concerns because the session is near its end and some said more medical input would be valuable before a final decision. The bill will proceed to the floor where further debate and potential amendment may occur.
