Radio
FDA Approves Prilosec as OTC Drug
Source: NBN/CP RadioWire
Jul 14, 2003, 12:06

The FDA has approved a popular heartburn prescription medicine for over-the-counter sale.  Prilosec OTC is used for the treatment of frequent heartburn. Once it becomes available without a prescription it will be the only over-the-counter drug that shuts down the release of acid at its source. At the same time, millions will be heading to their doctors and local pharmacies asking if the drug is right for them.  Wal-Mart pharmacist Lori Mendoza:

�We believe our consumers are going to be very excited about this O-T-C remedy.  Since this is new, we�re focusing on making sure our pharmacists are available to answer questions and provide information on heartburn treatments.  It�s such a huge win for the consumer, particularly since 41 million Americans are living without prescription health coverage.  Now those with frequent heartburn have an affordable alternative.�

According to the National Heartburn Alliance, more than 50 million Americans have frequent heartburn and half mistakenly think it�s impossible to live heartburn free.