The First Over-the-Counter Birth Control PillApproved by the FDA

by Ushnaa Zaman, P3

Photo credit: https://equitablegrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Inflation-Reduction-Act-1080x675.jpg

On July 13, 2023, the FDA approved Opill (norgestrel) as the first nonprescription oral contraceptive. Opill is a progestin-only contraceptive; it prevents pregnancy by thickening the mucus of the cervix – this creates a more hostile environment for the sperm, thus blocking penetration into the womb. There are many advantages of using a POP, or a progestin-only pill, such as safety for use by women at any age or those that are breastfeeding, as well as being a reversible option. Additionally, when compared to combined oral contraceptives, progestin-only contraceptives have lower risks for blood clots and strokes.

Opill will be available both in stores and online in early 2024. By eliminating the need for a prescription, accessibility to Opill will be expanded. There are several benefits to this, the main one being a decrease in the number of unin- tended pregnancies. An unplanned pregnancy is associated with many adverse outcomes for both the mother and the baby, such as preterm birth and postpartum depression. By decreasing the number of unintended pregnancies, Opill can also in turn decrease abortion rates. Moreover, by having Opill more widely available, it allows those who may not be able to see a healthcare provider – such as consumers without health insurance –to still have access to an effective contraceptive. Nevertheless, the pricing information for Opill is still unknown, so cost constraints can be an issue in obtaining the over-the-counter contraceptive.

Perhaps being able to purchase Opill without going through the process regularly done to obtain hormonal contraceptives – which usually involves a medical appointment and screening examination done by a healthcare provider – may seem daunting to the public. However, this process is not technically necessary, proven by the recent surge of telehealth services. By using online telehealth services, patients can eliminate receiving screenings and can acquire prescription birth control. This is essentially a confirmation of the safety of Opill without the need of a doctor. Furthermore, it was found that the

Brief Art Intermission: see PPA x PGC’s EMSOP Mural Collab!

This past October for Rutgers’ 2023 Homecoming, PGC held a spirit week. Adding to the class vs. class competition, PPA opened up an opportunity to gain points by getting each year (PP1 to P3) to contribute to a handprint paint mural to spell out “EMSOP”! Pictured to the right is a behind the scenes moment of the Class of 2025’s portion. The final banner with the letters is expected to be displayed in our Atrium!

nonprescription contraceptive can be used safely and effectively by consumers, as a high percentage of consumers were able to understand the Opill Drug Facts label.

Overall, the FDA approval of over-thecounter birth control Opill is a major step towards women’s health. Being 98% effective at preventing pregnancy, Opill has the potential to decrease unwanted pregnancies. This approval also opens a world of opportunities for women’s health. Hopefully, the future holds many more simple and convenient ways to prevent pregnancy, along with treatments for other health issues in women.

References

1. Committee Opinion. “Over-the-Counter Access to Hormonal Contraception.” The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2019/10/over-the-counteraccess-to-hormonal-contraception.

2. Edwards M, Can AS. Progestin. [Updated 2023 Mar 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/books/NBK563211/

3. “FDA Approves First Nonprescription Daily Oral Contraceptive.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, www.fda. gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-firstnonprescription-daily-oral-contraceptive.

4. “Learn More about Opill (0.075mg Oral Norgestrel Tablet).” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, www.fda.gov/ drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-andproviders/opill-0075mg-oral-norgestrel-tablet-information.

5. National Research Council (US) Committee on Population. Contraception and Reproduction: Health Consequences for Women and Children in the Developing World. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 1989. 4, Contraceptive Benefits and Risks. Available from: https:// www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK235069/