Normally big pharma would push its prescription only product, one that shows safety and efficacy and a wide therapeutic window, to move the product to OTC. HCQ is, for the most part, a generic. So my guess is big pharma may not be pushing this conversion to OTC.
However, under emergency circumstances, would the FDA do so on its own initiative?
Also, would OTC exclusivity be something that big pharma (Sanofi, maker of Plaquenil brand HCQ) push if they had the data and a good societal need case. Surely they are crunching or have crunched the numbers on this approach.
That’s a good point. I hadn’t considered the OTC option. Of course you know the DS would make sure to find someone to OD on it, even if they had to provide someone themselves. But if it’s safe and effective at normal doses, why not?