Issue Date: October 18, 2009
Will more drugs move behind the counter?
For decades, drugs either have been provided via prescription or were available over the counter (OTC). Things changed in 2006, when Congress mandated that the decongestant pseudoephedrine (often used to treat colds and sinus congestion) be moved behind the pharmacy counter. The move came because of concern over illicit use of the medication; producers of methamphetamine were buying up all the available OTC pseudoephedrine. By putting it behind the counter (BTC), authorities can track how much a pharmacy sells and to whom.
Other medications that are available behind the counter are the "Plan B" emergency contraceptive pills and, in some places, nicotine patches. Prescription drugs now under consideration for BTC status include statin medicines for controlling cholesterol and nasal steroids for treating allergies.
In the meantime, BTC drugs continue to be the subject of debate as health care officials consider whether they could play a role in improving the quality and cost effectiveness of our health care. Stay tuned.
Contributing Editor Tedd Mitchell, M.D., president and CEO of Dallas' Cooper Clinic, writes HealthSmart every week.
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