Birth control pills have been used safely in the United States for more than 50 years (and are only available via prescription). Just last summer, the FDA authorized Opill, the first over-the-counter daily contraceptive pill. This provides a new nonprescription alternative for avoiding pregnancy to a far larger number of people.
Opill might be accessible as early as 2024, while the specific timing and pricing remain unknown. Here's what adults, parents, and kids who are interested should know.
What exactly is Opill, and how does it work?
Opill is a progestin-only birth control pill. That is, it prevents conception by using a single hormone called progestin (or norgestrel). It operates by
a. influencing ovulation in such a way that the ovaries do not produce an egg every month
b. cervical mucus thickening, which prevents sperm from reaching an egg
c. Changing the uterine lining in ways that prevents a fertilized egg from implanting.
What is the effectiveness of Opill in preventing pregnancy?
It all depends on how consistently you take Opill:
a. Perfect usage entails taking the tablet at the same time every day. Opill is 98% effective when used correctly. That indicates that if 100 people take the drug exactly as prescribed, just two or fewer will become pregnant. Taking a medication correctly, on the other hand, can be tricky.
b. Average usage measures how effectively a technique works to prevent pregnancy when it is used by actual individuals in real life. It takes into account that people occasionally utilize the tablet inconsistently, such as missing a dosage or not taking it at the same time every day. Opill is 91% effective when used as directed. This indicates that if 100 people use Opill but do not take it properly, at least nine of them will become pregnant in a year.
It's also crucial to understand that several drugs reduce the effectiveness of Opill in preventing pregnancy. Among these are medications used to treat migraines and seizures. Even though this birth control pill will be accessible over the counter, you should see your doctor to see if any medications you are taking may make it less effective.
How should Opill be taken?
a. Take it once a day at the same time every day until the full pack is finished.
b. It is critical to stick to a constant time of day, every day. Because progestin-only tablets like Opill function by increasing progestin levels, timing is critical. However, progestin levels are only raised for 24 hours after each tablet is taken. The progestin level will then revert to normal.
c. After completing a 28-day pack, you should begin a fresh pack of tablets the following day.
What happens if you forget to take a medication on time or if you skip a dose?
a. If you take the pill after three hours, it will be less effective in preventing pregnancy.
b. As soon as you recall, take the missing medication.
c. For the following 48 hours, you must use a backup birth control technique, such as condoms, whenever you have sex.
Is Opill safe for adolescents?
Opill is typically safe for most pregnant women, even teens. There is no indication that teens' safety or side effects differ from those of adults.
The manufacturer's research has shown the safety of Opill in persons as young as 15 years old. It will be provided without regard to age.
What is the best method of birth control for teenagers?
There is no one-size-fits-all technique of birth control for all teens. The ideal strategy is the one that an adolescent enjoys and intends to use regularly.
Opill may not be the best option for kids who struggle with taking medicine at the same time every day, or for anybody else who does. Fortunately, there are several approaches for avoiding pregnancy that are tailored to individual preferences and objectives.
What are the most prevalent Opill side effects?
Progestin-only tablets often have few adverse effects. The following are the most prevalent side effects:
Unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting
Acne
Headache
Nausea, stomach discomfort, and bloating are examples of gastrointestinal symptoms.
A shift in appetite.
Opill does not interfere with future pregnancy attempts or cause cancer. Opill, unlike birth control tablets that include both estrogen and progestin, does not raise the chance of forming a blood clot.
Will Opill induce mood swings?
Because research on the impact of progestin-only tablets on mood is limited, this is unknown. We do know that the majority of persons who use hormonal birth control do not experience unfavorable mood changes.
Fortunately, there are several methods of effective birth control available. If one approach leads you to have unpleasant side effects, see your doctor. Together, you can determine whether another method of birth control might be more effective for you.
Can it be used as an emergency contraception?
No, it should not be used as an emergency contraception.
What do you need to know about STIs?
Sexually transmitted illnesses (STIs) such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia are not protected by this method of birth control.
You may lower your risk of STIs by wearing condoms appropriately every time you have sex. Condoms are classified into two types: those designed for penises and those designed for vaginas.
Some STIs, such as hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV), can be prevented using vaccines. PrEP is a medication that can help prevent HIV. Inquire with your medical team for additional information on the best options for you.
When will Opill be released, and how much will it cost?
The manufacturer determines the schedule for availability and the cost of medication. It was projected to enter stores in early 2024 at the time of FDA clearance. There have been no updates on the exact date or projected cost of the drug.
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