Morning-After Pill
Looks like we're getting closer to having "Plan B," one version of the morning-after pill,
sold over the counter. I don't have concerns about safety with this - it doesn't contain estrogen, just norgestrel (a progesterone). This means that the drug doesn't have the risks of blood clots and other estrogen side effects. However, I am concerned about the possibility that women will attempt to use it at other times than within the 72-hour period that is recommended. I do get questions about this from patients even now: "But are you sure I can't have it?"
If this goes through, the marketing campaign will have to emphasize the importance of timing. It has to be used within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, and sooner is better even within the 72 hours (i.e., it's more effective at 24 hours than at 48).
posted by Dr. Alice at #
