Arkansas lawmakers are once again making controversial health decisions this legislative session, including proposals related to ivermectin, a deworming drug that was falsely promoted as a cure for COVID-19. The lawmakers are now pushing for the drug to be sold over the counter without a prescription, despite only the FDA having the authority to approve such sales. Supporters of Senate Bill 189 argue that they are ahead of the FDA and are sending a message to the federal government about their distrust in its decision-making process.
During the pandemic, there was a surge in people consuming ivermectin meant for livestock, leading to an increase in calls to poison control centers. Lawmakers such as Sen. Alan Clark and Sen. Gary Stubblefield have made questionable statements about the drug’s efficacy, with Stubblefield suggesting that it could even have benefits in treating cancer. Such misinformation is dangerous and irresponsible, especially when coming from elected officials.
The bill is being supported by various lawmakers who have made questionable claims about the drug’s potential health benefits, including one who characterized a doctor who prescribed ivermectin in a jail as a medical mastermind. The doctor later settled with the former inmates after they sued for not being informed about the medication they were receiving. This controversial proposal highlights the need for accurate information and regulation in the healthcare industry.
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