Merck Canada applauds initiative to improve access to over the counter medicines for Canadians

KIRKLAND, QC, May 1, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Merck Canada supports Health Canada's initiative to ensure Canadians have quicker access to products that are switched from prescription to over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. On Thursday, April 26^th, the Federal Government announced that, as part of the Economic Action Plan 2012, it will eliminate regulatory red tape that currently delays the availability of medicines as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.

"As a healthcare company, we realize that there are many components to a healthy society. Providing consumers with more OTC healthcare alternatives is a great way to promote the importance of self-care within our society and contribute to the viability of our health care system" said Mr. Bruno Mäder, General Manager, Merck Consumer Care "We applaud all measures that will make our healthcare system more efficient without compromising the health and safety of consumers".

The Federal Government announcement indicated that that they will reduce the delays associated with switching a drug from prescription status to OTC status by eliminating Schedule F of Health Canada's Food and Drug Regulations. Drug safety will continue to be confirmed through the same rigorous process of scientific review before a drug can be approved for sale and before a drug can be sold OTC.

About Merck

Today's Merck is a global healthcare leader working to help the world be well.  Merck is known as MSD outside the United States and Canada. Through our prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, and consumer care and animal health products, we work with customers and operate in more than 140 countries to deliver innovative health solutions. We also demonstrate our commitment to increasing access to healthcare through far-reaching policies, programs and partnerships. For more information, visit www.merck.ca.

Geneviève Chalifour, Merck Canada Inc., 514-428-3029