First over-the-counter birth control pill now available [Video]

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — A drug that has been available for decades but only available with a prescription has entered a new era.

“We have a lot of data on this particular medication,” Jacquelyn Kissel, associate director of clinical pharmacy with Equitas, said.

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That medication Kissel is discussing is called Opill.

The oral contraceptive was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for sale without a prescription last July.

The pill is taken daily and is a progestin-only contraceptive, a hormone Kissel said is a safer medication option especially for those high-risk consumers.

“This is the medication we would want to use in patients with cardiovascular disease or are smokers, or older,” she said. “It’s a safe medication and we have a lot of data around it, so I feel comfortable with the fact that it’s over the counter.”

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The advisory …