[HM2Viking]

SILVER SPRING, Maryland (Reuters) - A U.S. advisory panel urged the government on Thursday to reject Merck & Co Inc's (MRK.N: Quote, Profile, Research) latest bid to sell a cholesterol-lowering drug without a prescription.
The committee voted 10-2, with one abstention, against recommending over-the-counter sales of Merck's cholesterol fighter Mevacor. Most of the experts said a company study failed to show patients could decide for themselves if they were appropriate candidates for the medicine.
Currently all cholesterol-lowering drugs require a doctor's prescription before being dispensed in the United States.
Source: http://www.reuters.com/article/healt...22282720071214 accessed today.

[pickledpepperRN]

I think that is best. There are too many considerations.

http://www.all-about-lowering-choles...e-effects.html

[CHATSDALE]

not to be mercenary but insurance don't pay for otc drugs

[sharona97]

Insurance is not the isssue her IMO, it is the patient's or public safety. And thank God it did not pass.

[nyapa]

I don't understand why a low dose can't be sold OTC. . The risks for statins causing serious side effects are pretty remote.

NSAIDs and aspirin are probably more of a risk.

As for patients not knowing whether something is suitable for them, surely pharmacists can provide education.

[HM2Viking]

I didn't think the proposal was a good idea. I am glad that for now it was rejected.

[oramar]

The thing is I know if I have a head ache and need a Tylenol. How would I know my cholesterol is elevated and warrents self medication? This drug requires medical supervision.

[Jolie]

I agree, oramar. If there were a reliable OTC method of monitoring cholesterol levels, I might possibly support the OTC sale of these drugs.

[sharona97]

Spacenurse, Good read , thanks!