FDA Approves First-Ever Birth Control Pill
Earlier this month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first over-the-counter birth control pill. When it’s available – in 2024, according to Perrigo Company, the pill’s manufacturer - patients will be able to purchase the oral contraceptive at drug stores, pharmacies, grocery stores or online without a prescription from a health care provider.
The pill, called Opill and commonly referred to as the ‘mini pill’, is a progestin-only pill that should be taken at the same time every day; its intended use is to prevent pregnancy. When used correctly, Opill can be more than 90 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. It’s not a new medication – in fact, Opill has been available with a prescription since 1973.
Opill uses progestin, a synthetic hormone, to block sperm from the cervix and prevent pregnancy. Other birth control pills use both progestin and estrogen, another hormone, but Opill has long been recommend for those who can’t take a combination pill for a variety of reasons.
Common side effects from Opill are similar to those of other prescription oral contraceptives, including irregular bleeding, headaches, abdominal pain or nausea, dizziness and increased appetite. There are certain medications that can interact with Opill and decrease its effectiveness, and, people that have or have had breast cancer should not take this medication. Patients also shouldn’t use Opill in conjunction with another oral contraceptive, including a contraceptive patch, injection or intrauterine device (IUD).
Unlike other over-the-counter medications, Opill is not intended for emergency contraception, and will not prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. It also does not protect against transmission of sexually transmitted diseases or infections.
Although this pill will be available without a prescription, remember that it doesn’t replace a visit to your OB/GYN or health care provider! Regular visits to your health care provider are still a vital part of your health.
Obstetrician/Gynecologist Shawna Ruple, M.D., sees patients at MidMichigan Obstetrics & Gynecology in Midland and performs procedures and delivers babies at MyMichigan Medical Center Midland and MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch. Dr. Ruple specializes in routine and problem gynecology care, gynecologic surgery, prevention of female reproductive cancers, birth control options, caring for women while pregnant and more.
