Over-the-counter sale of Plan B, or the morning-after contraceptive pill was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Thursday.
In a statement, the agency said it will be available only to women 18 years old or older, and that a prescription would still be required for anyone younger.
Plan B contains the same ingredient used in prescription birth control pills, but a higher dose and the product has a different dosing regimen, the statement said.
When used as directed, it effectively and safely prevents pregnancy, the FDA said.
The drug will be marketed by Duramed, a subsidiary of Barr Pharmaceuticals.
Copyright 2006 by United Press International
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