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Over‐the‐Counter Access to Emergency Contraception without Age Restriction: An Opinion of the Women's Health Practice and Research Network of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Author(s) -
Rafie Sally,
McIntosh Jennifer,
Gardner Debra K.,
Gawronski Kristen M.,
Karaoui Lamis R.,
Koepf Erin R.,
Lehman Katherine Joy,
McBane Sarah,
PatelShori Nima M.
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
pharmacotherapy: the journal of human pharmacology and drug therapy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.227
H-Index - 109
eISSN - 1875-9114
pISSN - 0277-0008
DOI - 10.1002/phar.1229
Subject(s) - emergency contraception , levonorgestrel , medicine , pharmacy , family planning , family medicine , population , gynecology , environmental health , research methodology
Family planning remains a high priority area for the U nited S tates, with goals to increase the proportion of pregnancies that are intended, reduce pregnancy rates among adolescents, and increase contraceptive use prioritized in the H ealthy P eople 2020 objectives. Contraception intended for use after unprotected intercourse, known as emergency contraception, remains underutilized. Levonorgestrel is one method of oral emergency contraception, which prevents fertilization and does not disrupt an already established pregnancy; thus, timing of administration is critical. Despite data demonstrating safety and efficacy, evidence‐based decision making has been overshadowed by politically charged actions involving levonorgestrel emergency contraception for over a decade. The W omen's H ealth P ractice and R esearch N etwork of the A merican C ollege of C linical P harmacy supports expanded access to levonorgestrel emergency contraception and removal of barriers such as age restrictions on the nonprescription drug product. Pharmacists remain a key provider of emergency contraceptive services and can help ensure timely access. In states where direct pharmacy access to emergency contraception is available, pharmacists are encouraged to participate. Education, research, and advocacy are other important responsibilities for pharmacists in this arena.