2074. Analysis of Current Pharmacy Statutes and Regulations Governing Pharmacists' Authority to Administer Cabotegravir (CAB) for PrEP in the United States (US)


 
 
 The Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative aims to increase PrEP use among eligible Americans to 50% by 2030. As one of the most widely accessible healthcare providers, pharmacists are well positioned to support these efforts. The latest advancement in HIV prevention—long-acting injectable CAB for PrEP—offers a novel solution to the adherence challenges of oral regimens. Understanding the current landscape of medication administration privileges for pharmacists is critical to facilitating uptake of CABr and preventing HIV transmission.
 
 
 
 This was a cross sectional analysis of state pharmacy statues and regulations from 50 US states and the District of Columbia (States). Data were obtained from publicly accessible, official websites of the regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over the practice of pharmacy in each respective state. We analyzed current laws in effect as of February, 2022 in accordance with best practices for legal mapping. Using a standardized analysis algorithm, we determined the impact of state laws on pharmacists’ ability to administer CAB.
 
 
 
 Current state legislature allows administration of CAB by pharmacists in 44 States (80.3%). Broad authority is granted in 28 states (55.0%) where administration is defined within scope of practice. In 5 states, pharmacists can administer injectable medications if the prescription order contains explicit instructions for pharmacist administration, or a standing protocol. Among 8 states that require a collaborative practice agreement for CAB administration, 3 currently allow pharmacists to administer other long acting injectable medications without restrictions. Of the 6 states where pharmacist administration of CAB is prohibited, 2 allow administration of similar formulations. Private rooms for gluteal injections are only required in 13 states. Furthermore, treatment-specific training is only required in 3 laws, while 11 require completion of relevant continuing education.
 
 
 
 Considerable variation exists among state laws governing the practice of pharmacy. Differences in scope of practice definition, medications expressly discussed, and continuing education and training requirements limit the ability of pharmacists to facilitate PrEP uptake through administration of cabotegravir.
 
 
 
 All Authors: No reported disclosures.
