By: Deborah Kotz
Source: US News
Well, it’s official. The Food and Drug Administration yesterday said it will allow 17-year-olds to purchase the Plan B “morning after” pill over the counter. Until now, the contraceptive product—which prevents pregnancy if taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex—was available only for those 18 and over who presented a valid ID to a pharmacist behind the counter. Younger teens needed a prescription to get access to it.
In a brief statement released on its website yesterday, the FDA said it would not appeal a judge’s decision issued last month directing the agency to make emergency contraception available to 17-year-olds. But it also said the product won’t become available to women of that age until the manufacturer of Plan B submits and receives approval for a labeling change—which could take some time.
FDA Says ‘Yes’ to Plan B Morning-After Pill for 17-Year-Olds
