FDA Approves First Over-The-Counter Birth Control Pill

The New York Times reports:

The Food and Drug Administration on Thursday approved a birth control pill to be sold without a prescription for the first time in the United States, a milestone that could significantly expand access to contraception. The medication, called Opill, will become the most effective birth control method available over the counter — more effective at preventing pregnancy than condoms, spermicides and other nonprescription methods.

Experts in reproductive health said its availability could be especially useful for young women, teenagers and those who have difficulty dealing with the time, costs or logistical hurdles involved in visiting a doctor to obtain a prescription. The pill’s manufacturer, Perrigo Company, based in Dublin, said Opill would most likely become available from stores and online retailers in the United States in early 2024.

Read the full article.

Thank you, ⁦@US_FDA⁩, for making women’s health a priority! https://t.co/4vM2hr4hVm

— Valerie Jarrett (@ValerieJarrett) July 13, 2023