HI HCR134

Urges the Hawaii State Director of Health to issue a statewide order allowing nebulized budesonide to be sold and purchased without a prescription or healthcare provider consultation.

Recommends that nebulizer machines also be made available for over-the-counter sale without a prescription.

Directs the Board of Pharmacy to adopt rules ensuring proper product labeling with dosages, usage instructions, and requiring pharmacies and retailers to provide written instructions to customers.

Cites multiple international studies, including the Oxford STOIC Trial and UK PRINCIPLE Trial, claiming inhaled budesonide reduced COVID-19 hospitalizations and improved recovery times.

References recognition of budesonide as an essential medicine by the World Health Organization and its inclusion in COVID-19 treatment guidelines by the UK, Australia, and India.