Missouri House backs easing access to HIV prevention drugs

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP)

The Missouri House has approved legislation that will make it easier to access drugs to prevent HIV infection.

The bill sponsored by Rep. Phil Christofanelli, a Republican from St. Peters, would allow access to pre- and post-HIV exposure drugs at pharmacies.

Pharmacists would be required to work under supervision of a licensed physician. Patients would have to follow up with a physician to get a prescription for more than a 30-day supply of the pre-exposure medication. The bill now goes to the Senate.

Christofanelli says he hopes some big pharmacy chains will adopt the procedures if the bill becomes law.