APhA Statement On FDA's Recent Decision To Evaluate The Creation Of A Behind The Counter Class Of Drugs

Main Category: Pharmacy / Pharmacist
Article Date: 04 Oct 2007 - 18:00 PDT

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The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) applauds the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) recent decision to consider the development of a behind the counter (BTC) class of drugs that could include medications available without a prescription and would also require the intervention of a pharmacist before dispensing.

"This new class could translate into increased access for patients" said John A. Gans, PharmD, APhA CEO, "while providing additional safeguards through pharmacist interventions that would better ensure appropriate medication use."

APhA has been a long-time supporter of restructuring the current drug classification system and drug approval process, based upon available evidence, to assure appropriate access to medications and pharmacist services and to improve medication use and outcomes. Pharmacists' medication expertise and accessibility place them in a unique position to provide the oversight that would benefit patients taking certain products. Everyday, pharmacists help patients self-manage their medication therapy and improve their medication use through appropriate selection, monitoring and education.

About the American Pharmacists Association (APhA)

The American Pharmacists Association, founded in 1852 as the American Pharmaceutical Association, represents more than 60,000 practicing pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists, student pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and others interested in advancing the profession. APhA, dedicated to helping all pharmacists improve medication use and advance patient care, is the first-established and largest association of pharmacists in the United States. APhA members provide care in all practice settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, managed care organizations, hospice settings, and the military.

http://www.aphanet.org