Over-the-counter Pill

Women can now buy the contraceptive from a chemist without a prescription

THE contraceptive pill has been approved for over-thecounter sale without a prescription for the first time.

Two brands of the pill – Hana and Lovima – can be bought in pharmacies in the high street or supermarkets following a ruling by the Medicine and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

It is the first time that any daily contraceptive pill has been licensed for over-the-counter sale in the UK, 60 years after the pill was originally offered by the NHS.

Earlier this year, two drug companies applied for their progestogen-only contraceptive pills to be reclassified from prescription-only to pharmacy products.

The decision, announced yesterday, means women will not need a prescription from a doctor or sexual health clinic to buy these two brands and that a qualified pharmacist can now oversee their sale.

It has been widely supported by healthcare professionals. Michelle Riddals, chief executive of consumer healthcare association PAGB, said: ‘Making these progestogen-only contraceptive pills available without prescription in the UK is an historic milestone for women and women’s health.’

The ‘traditional’ progestogen only pill prevents pregnancy by thickening the mucus in the cervix to stop sperm reaching an egg.

It is 99 per cent effective if taken correctly every day. The Lovima and Hana pills also contain desogestrel, which can stop ovulation.

Both pills will be available for women of childbearing age. This includes adolescents who meet the criteria for supply, but that will be for the pharmacist to determine.

The MHRA said that in under 18s, and especially those under 16, it is ‘essential to establish that the girl is not being exploited or abused’. Pharmacists are encouraged to provide no more than a three-month supply to ensure girls can be followed up.

A one-month supply of Lovima will cost around £10 and will be available from the end of this month. The Hana pill will cost £9.95 for a month’s supply and be available in the next few weeks.