Opill, the first OTC contraceptive pill is on the way to shelves near you. Here’s why it matters:
• It’s safe. It’s a progestin-only pill so does not carry the risks associated with pills that contain estrogen
• Access eliminates navigating our complex health system. Important for teens and people who have a hard time getting off work or are uninsured
• It’s not cheap but it’s reasonably priced. Three months will cost $50.00. The manufacturer has a program to provide free or low-cost pills to low-income users
insurance should cover OTC birth control. Legislative bills to require this are in the works.
• It can be used to bridge between prescriptions. If someone runs out of pills and cannot get a new pack in time, they can buy one pack of these pills – even if taking combined pills with estrogen – until they get a new prescription
• It will be the most effective contraceptive method for sale OTC. More effective than condoms and spermicides
Important to know: must be taken at the same time every day and users may have irregular bleeding or spotting which tends to improve with time. Is ~ as effective as combined birth control pills, 93% with typical use. It should not be used by those with breast cancer, suspected pregnancy or abnormal vaginal bleeding that has not been assessed by a healthcare provider.
