First US state allows artificial intelligence to prescribe medication to people

Utah authorities have allowed the Nolla Health startup system to issue the first prescriptions for topical acne treatments for adults.

The year-long pilot project began on October 5, 2026. This is the first instance in the US where artificial intelligence has been allowed not only to continue previously prescribed treatment, but also to initiate it.

The patient confirms their identity, fills out a medical questionnaire, and takes five photos of their face with a smartphone from different angles.

The application assesses the severity of acne, takes into account treatment history, and selects one of eight pre-approved regimens. After this, the prescription is sent to the chosen pharmacy or partner delivery service.

The system's authority is limited to mild to moderate forms of acne and only to topical creams and gels. AI cannot prescribe pills or hormonal therapy.

The system's autonomy will be introduced in stages. The prescriptions for the first 100 patients must be checked by two independent, Utah-licensed doctors before being sent. Then, the AI will be able to send prescriptions directly to the pharmacy, and doctors will review all cases retrospectively at least once a week.

Each transition to the next stage requires separate written permission from state authorities. Among the mandatory conditions are: at least 95% agreement between AI and doctor recommendations, absence of serious side effects, and no missed medical contraindications.

The pharmacy must be aware that the prescription was generated by AI and receive the doctor's contact details. The company is obliged to report adverse events to the authorities within 24 hours.

Participation in the pilot project costs $4.99 per month, excluding the cost of medication. According to Nolla Health, it takes 10-15 minutes from opening the application to sending a prescription. The company contrasts this process with the waiting time for a dermatologist appointment, which it estimates averages 61 days in Utah.