Bill > SB19

This bill establishes new regulations for pharmacists dispensing ivermectin in Louisiana, allowing pharmacists to dispense the medication to individuals 18 and older through a standing order issued by a healthcare professional. The Louisiana Department of Health is required to create rules for this process, which include providing patients with a risk assessment tool, information about the medication's uses and potential risks, and guidelines for proper usage. Pharmacists can charge an administrative fee in addition to the medication and dispensing cost. The bill provides legal protection for pharmacists acting in good faith, granting them immunity from disciplinary actions by the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy and civil liability (except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct). Importantly, the legislation does not mandate that health insurance providers cover the cost of ivermectin dispensed under these new provisions. The bill is notable for addressing the dispensing of ivermectin, a medication initially developed as an anti-parasitic drug that gained attention during the COVID-19 pandemic for its potential (though controversially studied) off-label use in treating viral infections.