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Answer:In August 2006, the Food and Drug Administration approved over-the-counter (OTC) sales of the emergency contraceptive drug Plan B (two 0.75 mg levonorgestrel pills) for women age 18 years and older. Before this time, the medication was available by prescription only since 1999.

Women under age 18 still require a doctor’s prescription to obtain Plan B.

This drug is sold only in stores staffed by a licensed pharmacist. A person must show proof of age before being given the medication for purchase. (This transaction is also known as “behind the counter.”)

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic hormone that has been used in birth control pills for more than 35 years. Plan B is intended for use if regular contraception fails (such as a broken condom) or after unprotected sex. The pills—which work by stopping the release of an egg by the ovaries—should be taken by mouth as soon as possible and within 72 hours of unprotected sex or failed contraception.

Get more information about Plan B.

Learn more about safe sex and birth control in the Walgreens.com Health Library.

View the Walgreens.com Ask a Pharmacist Archives for a list of all commonly asked questions.

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