Behind-the-Counter Class of Drugs (Resolution No. 104-6-08)

May 20, 2008 4:19 PM Topics: Resolutions

Resolution No.: 104-6-08
Title: Behind-the-Counter Class of Drugs
Action: Passed

Whereas, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is contemplating the establishment of a class of medications that would be available without a prescription but only after intervention from a pharmacist; and

Whereas, FDA has indicated that greater patient involvement in health care and the trend toward patient empowerment regarding health care decisions and responsibilities are driving FDA’s decision to consider the establishment of a “behind-the-counter” class of drugs; and

Whereas, NABP has advocated for the recognition of a transitional or behind-the-counter class of drugs since 1995 noting that a number of prescription drugs that are being considered for nonprescription status have serious side effects and need appropriate pharmacist intervention for their effective use; and

Whereas, the establishment of a behind-the-counter class of drugs would increase patient access to needed medications and improve patient care and patient safety;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that NABP collaborate with FDA and interested stakeholders to develop the statutory authority and other necessary legislative language to establish a behind-the-counter class of drugs that would be available without a prescription but only after intervention by a pharmacist.

(Resolution passed at the NABP 104th Annual Meeting, Baltimore, MD)