omen For the first time in the UK, certain types of contraceptives can be purchased in pharmacies without a prescription.
The US Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) announced on Thursday that it has reclassified Lovima and Hana, two progestogen-only 75 microgram contraceptives.
This means that women can get these pills over the counter after consulting a pharmacist instead of making an appointment through a general practitioner.
Dr. Edward Morris, Dean of the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (RCOG), described it as “a great victory for women and girls.”
He said: “We are very happy that all people who need a pure progestin oral contraceptive (POP) can now enter the local pharmacy without a prescription.
“This announcement is a huge victory for women and girls. They will no longer face unnecessary obstacles in obtaining this contraceptive method.”
He added that even before the pandemic, many women were struggling to obtain basic female health services, leading to an increase in the number of unintended pregnancies.
Michelle Riddalls, chief executive of the Consumer Healthcare Association PAGB, described the decision as a “historical milestone for women.”
She said: “We warmly welcome the MHRA’s decision.
“The provision of these progestogen-only contraceptives without a prescription in the UK is a historic milestone for women and women’s health.
“This is the first time any form of daily contraceptive pill has been licensed for over-the-counter sales in the UK. It has been 60 years since the drug was originally provided by the UK government. National Health Service – Initially only married women. “
Pills containing only progesterone contain desogestrel, which is safe for women who cannot use standard contraceptives containing estrogen.
The reclassification means that women can get contraceptives without having to make an appointment with a GP, although they can still get it through this route and through sexual health clinics.
MHRA CEO Dr. June Raine CBE said: “pharmacist With professional knowledge, you can advise women on whether desogestrel is suitable for their use and safe oral contraceptives, and provide women with the information they need so that they can make wise choices.
“We have consulted a wide range of people so that we can make a decision to provide this contraceptive in the UK for the first time without a prescription.
“Our consultation received many responses, most of which support this approach.”
The MHRA’s decision to reclassify the product was also made after the Human Medicines Committee (CHM) conducted a safety review.
Robiner, director of the Royal Pharmaceutical Association’s pharmacy, said the move is a “positive step” and women will be able to get expert advice from pharmacies.
