WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 516

Health: pharmaceuticals; ivermectin; allow over-the-counter access. Amends 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.1101 - 333.25211) by adding secs. 17771 & 17771a.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Daley and 5 co-sponsors

Michigan bill would allow over-the-counter ivermectin sales without prescription, removing physician oversight of a drug FDA-approved only for specific parasitic infections.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
#health:pharmaceuticals
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 516

Legislative bill overview

SB 516 proposes to amend Michigan's pharmaceutical regulations to allow ivermectin to be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription. The bill adds two new sections to the Michigan Public Health Code that would classify ivermectin as an OTC medication rather than a prescription-only drug.

Why is this important

Ivermectin's regulatory status has become politically contentious due to its promotion as a COVID-19 treatment despite limited clinical evidence supporting that use. This bill would significantly alter medication access and FDA regulatory authority in Michigan, potentially affecting how residents obtain antiparasitic medications and raising questions about medical oversight of drug use.

Potential points of contention

  • FDA authority and standards: Ivermectin is FDA-approved only for specific parasitic infections in humans; removing prescription requirements could enable off-label use without medical supervision, contradicting federal drug classification standards
  • Medical oversight concerns: OTC access eliminates physician review of patient suitability, contraindications, and drug interactions, potentially increasing adverse health outcomes
  • COVID-19 context: The bill's timing and sponsorship reflect ongoing debates about ivermectin as an unproven COVID treatment, which public health organizations have cautioned against; approval could be interpreted as endorsement despite lack of clinical evidence

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.