Quality & Patient Safety

FDA considers adding third class of drug

Patient Safety Monitor Alert, October 9, 2007

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The Food and Drug Administration last week proposed creating a classification of drug, in addition to "over-the-counter" and "prescription", reports the LA Times. Nicknamed "behind-the-counter" medications, these drugs would be available to purchase without a prescription but would not be found on the shelf like over-the-counter drugs. Instead, consumers would have to ask the pharmacist for the medication.

This proposal has angered many physicians, who maintain that the general public should not diagnose their own symptoms. However, many groups think this idea is a good one, saying that many medications patients take are routine and to have to make a doctor's appointment to refill the medication wastes time on all parts. Many other countries already employ this model. One question raised is how insurers will cover these types of medications.

To read the full story, click here.



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