The Food and Drug Administration on Thursday approved the first birth control pill to be used without a prescription, potentially expanding access to contraception in the U.S.
Called Opill, the once-daily pill will be available over the country in drug, grocery and convenience stories beginning early next year, said its maker, Ireland-based Perrigo.
“When used as directed, daily oral contraception is safe and is expected to be more effective than currently available nonprescription contraceptive methods in preventing unintended pregnancy,” said Patrizia Cavazzoni, head of the primary FDA drug review office, in a statement.
