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SB 29

Relating to a statewide order issued by the commissioner of state health services authorizing a pharmacist to dispense ivermectin.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by Paul Bettencourt and 15 co-sponsors

Texas bill authorizing state health commissioner to allow pharmacists to dispense ivermectin without prescription, expanding medication access and pharmacy authority.

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#health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #healthcareproviders(i0387) #health--general(i0385) #medicine&prescriptiondrugs(s7338) #occupationalregulation--healthoccupations(i0540) #pharmacies&pharmacists(s1192) #pharmacy #texasstateboardof(v0022) #statehealthservices #departmentof(v0463)
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Bill Summary · SB 29

Legislative bill overview

SB 29 would authorize Texas's state health commissioner to issue a statewide order allowing pharmacists to dispense ivermectin without a prescription. The bill appears designed to expand pharmacist authority to distribute this medication directly to patients under certain conditions established by the health commissioner.

Why is this important

This bill addresses medication access and the scope of pharmacy practice in Texas. It reflects ongoing policy debates about whether ivermectin should be more readily available, particularly following discussions about its use for various conditions during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Potential points of contention

  • Medical oversight concerns: Pharmacist dispensing without a physician prescription raises questions about appropriate medical supervision and liability, particularly for off-label uses
  • Drug efficacy and safety: Ivermectin's effectiveness for conditions beyond FDA-approved uses (parasitic infections) remains scientifically contested, and expanded access could promote unapproved applications
  • Pharmacy scope of practice: The bill may conflict with existing state pharmacy regulations and licensing requirements that typically require prescriptions for most medications

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

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