Over-the-Counter Statins: A Simple, Life-Saving Policy Change

An open letter advocates for reclassifying low-dose statins (like atorvastatin 10mg or rosuvastatin 5mg) from prescription-only to over-the-counter medication. The author argues this would dramatically improve cardiovascular prevention, citing extensive evidence of statins' safety and efficacy. The letter suggests guidelines designating low-dose statins as safe and effective for primary prevention, potentially incorporating an initial pharmacist-screened sale, then removing that requirement after post-market data confirms safety and efficacy. This policy change could prevent thousands of heart attacks and strokes annually with minimal risk.