KENNEWICK. Wash.- The anticipated release of Opill, the nation’s first contraception available without a prescription, is now a reality in several Walgreens locations around the United States.
According to NBC News, the medication will also be available at Walmart and CVS and can be ordered directly from Opill’s website.
The medication costs 19.99 for a one-month or 49.99 for a three-month supply at many stores. Walmart plans to offer the medication for a slightly lower if purchased online.
If used as directed, Opill can be 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. That number can rise to 99% in combination with other medications. Essentially, only 2 out of every 100 women will become pregnant in a year of consistent use.
The pill contains the hormone progestin, which makes it more challenging for sperm to reach the egg while thinning the lining of the uterus and sometimes can prevent ovulation. A prescription version was available to the public under the brand Ovrette from 1973 -2005.
Under the Affordable Care Act, most insurance plans must cover certain contraceptives at out-of-pocket cost. However, since Opill is over-the-counter, it generally may not be covered.
To learn more about Opill’s release, click here.
