Over-The-Counter Birth Control Pill To Launch In Coming Weeks
by Laura Erdman, MD
The New York Times (3/4, Belluck) reports, “The first nonprescription birth control pill in the United States will be available in stores and online in the coming weeks at a price of $19.99 a month, the manufacturer, Perrigo Company, announced on Monday.” The drug, Opill, “which was approved for over-the-counter sale by the Food and Drug Administration last year, will be the most effective birth control method available without a prescription, research shows – more effective than condoms, spermicides and other nonprescription methods.”
The AP (3/4, Perrone) reports Perrigo “said Monday it has begun shipping the medication...to major retailers and pharmacies.” Opill “will also be sold online.” The medication’s “approval came despite some concerns by FDA scientists about the company’s results, including whether women with certain medical conditions would understand that they shouldn’t take the drug.” American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists President Verda Hicks, MD, FACOG, in a statement “said studies have shown that patients, including adolescents, can effectively screen themselves to use the pills.”
Patients should not take Opill in conjunction with any other hormonal contraceptive and should be sure they tell their physician that they are taking it.
