The National Lipid Association surveys of consumers, physicians, and pharmacists regarding an over-the-counter statin in the United States: is this a good idea?

Surveys commissioned by the National Lipid Association (NLA) were conducted to determine the current attitudes and perceptions of physicians, consumers, and pharmacists regarding the impact of an over-the-counter (OTC) statin. Individuals from preexisting independent databases were randomly invited to participate in the online surveys that were open from January 26 to 30, 2004 for physicians and consumers and from March 1 to 12, 2004 for pharmacists. The results of these surveys indicate that consumers and pharmacists are more positive regarding the idea of an OTC statin, whereas physicians are more guarded. Concerns of both physicians and pharmacists included the discontinuation by patients of their prescription cholesterol-lowering therapy without consulting their physician, safety issues such as potential drug interactions and side effects, and patient ability to self-manage OTC statins. Consumers interested in purchasing an OTC statin reported that they would consult their physician before doing so, and pharmacists were interested in supporting consumers who use OTC statins. Although such support would require further training and time, pharmacists believed that they could facilitate consumer self-care programs and follow-up with physicians.