Comment from Deborah Friedman
AnonymousSupportIndividual
Summary: A neurologist and headache specialist supports the proposal to make triptans available over-the-counter, noting their safety and efficacy compared to current OTC options. However, the commenter expresses concern that patients may face out-of-pocket costs if insurance payers choose to drop coverage for these medications.
I am a neurologist and headache specialist. I have prescribed triptans since the early 1990s and strongly support Dr. Mauskopf's proposal. Triptans have a long track record of safety and are more effective than currently used the-counter medications for migraine treatment. They are available over-the-counter in other countries. While this action will likely reduce health care costs overall, my only concern is that patients who rely on their health care coverage to afford them may not be able to bear the out-of-pocket expense if payers (particulaly Medicare, Medicaid and TriCare) drop triptan coverage because a prescription is no longer required.