FDA approves generic “morning after pill” for women ages 17 and under
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first generic version of the “morning after” emergency contraceptive pill.
Previously the only version of the pill on the market was Plan B, which was available without a prescription for women 18 and older and with a prescription for those 17 and under.
The new generic will, which will be marketed under the trade name Next Choice, will only be available only by prescription for women ages 17 and under.
The active ingredient of Plan B and Next Choice is levonorgestrel. Levonorgestrel is thought to work by three methods:
- Preventing ovulation and, thus, preventing fertilization.
- Possibly altering transport of the sperm and egg through the fallopian tubes, preventing fertilization.
- Altering the lining of the uterus and, thus, preventing implantation of a fertilized egg.
According to the manufacturer of Plan B, if taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, contraceptive failure or sexual assault, levonorgestrel can reduce the chance of pregnancy by 89 percent. The drug, however, is more effective if taken earlier.
But, because the drug may interfere with the development of the egg after fertilization, many consider use of levonorgestrel tantamount to abortion, and some pharmacists have refused to dispense the drug.
To learn more:
- Read additional information about Emergency Contraception provided by Planned Parenthood.
- Contact local Planned Parenthood Centers.
- Visit the Web sites of the manufacturers of Plan B and Next Choice.
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