The FDA approved over-the-counter sales of "Plan B" aka "The Morning After pill" yesterday. By the end of the year, girls (or guys) 18 or older will be able to buy Plan B from a pharmacist without needing a prescription from a doctor.
"The decision means women will not have to go to a doctor first as long
as they can prove they are 18 or older to a pharmacist, who will keep
the drugs behind a counter. Younger teenagers will still need a
prescription, and the pills will not be sold at gas stations,
convenience stores or other outlets that do not have pharmacists."
Of course, this is a highly debated topic and one that I beleive will never have complete support for one side or the other. I, personally, support the FDA's decision. I understand some of the points that the opponents bring up (some opponents' claims are a bit far-fetched though), but restricting access to things like this is not the answer to promoting safer sex (a big argument against this decision is that it will promote unsafe sex).
The FDA made some really shitty decisions in recent years. This decision seems to be well thought out and, for once, a good decision. I say this because the way they've set up the access to this drug has taken precautions without being too restricting. I think it's a good idea to make this available only through a pharmacist, and also only to people 18 or older.
What's your opinion of this decision?
CNN article
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