An advisory group to the FDA has recommended that an over-the-counter pill, Opill (norgestrel) be approved. This would mean that women could purchase oral birth control pills without a prescription and a visit with their doctor.
Some people have raised concerns that some women will begin taking these pills when they are contraindicated, e.g., have breast cancer or abnormal vaginal bleeding.
However, this concern may be dealt with by providing clear instructions on the correct use of the pills. The instructions should include contraindications for their use.
The pills are not available at this time because they must first be approved by the FDA. If they are in the future, it will be a real convenience for women desiring oral contraception.
Peter M. Hartmann, MD
Family Medicine & Psychiatry
