Earlier this week, word came that an FDA committee, concerned about overuse of acetaminophen leading to too much liver damage, is seeking a ban on Percocet and Vicodin, and a shift of Extra Strength Tylenol to prescription status.
Jeralyn, at TalkLeft, concerned about the potential banning of two common potent-but-not-too-potent painkillers remarked:
The Government needs to keep its hands off our bodies. If my doctor wants me to have Percodan and he and I are aware of the risk yet believe it’s necessary after a painful medical or dental procedure, I should be allowed to use it. It’s between me and my doctor.
It’s a very understandable sentiment.
Of course, it’s a somewhat ironic sentiment to be found at a site like TalkLeft. If I’m not mistaken, most of the folks there are in favor of the feds promulgating some form of health care reform, preferably with a “public option”, where the federal government acts as an insurer.
And if the government is acting as an insurer, the need to find ways to affordably provide coverage will lead to certain restrictions being imposed on the nature of treatments or prescriptions permitted.
Perhaps the strings attached are worth the benefit of ensuring everyone has the ability to access some level of health care. But it will be important to remember that you can’t have your cake and eat it too.
