FDA approves first over-the-counter birth control pill in U.S.
Washington PostJul 13, 2023
The Facts
On Thursday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first-ever nonprescription, daily hormonal contraceptive pill in the US. Approval of the drug, Opill, comes six decades after birth control pills were introduced in the nation.
Opill, sold by the company Perrigo (PRGO.N), was initially approved for prescription use in 1973. The over-the-counter version, which is available without a prescription, is expected to be in stores and online in early 2024.
The Spin
Left narrative
This approval is probably 60 years overdue and should reduce barriers to access by allowing people to obtain birth control without needing to see a healthcare provider. In the wake of SCOTUS overturning Roe v. Wade, it’s important to do whatever it takes to reduce the number of unintended pregnancies. Now Perrigo must make good on its promise to make Opill affordable for whoever needs it.
Right narrative
This over-the-counter approval is irresponsible and dangerous. Opill has documented and potentially life-threatening side effects, and any patient with access to the drug should, at the very least, be medically evaluated for contraindications to the drug. Vulnerable people, especially teenagers, could be seriously harmed by this approval.