Green light to the “5 days later” pill for minors

“Free” next day contraception for minors? Supossely Yes. A medical prescription will no longer be necessary to dispense “ulipistral acetate” to minors, which is the drug used as emergency contraception up to five days after intercourse. The decision comes from the Italian Medicines Agency, with Resolution no. 998 of October 8, which defines it as a turning point for the protection of the physical and psychological health of adolescents.

An ethical tool
“It is a very effective tool for emergency contraception for young women who have had unprotected sex, within five days after sexual intercourse – explains the general director of Aifa, Nicola Magrini – and also, in my opinion , an ethical tool since it allows you to avoid the critical moments that only girls usually endure. I want to emphasize that it is emergency contraception and that it is not a drug of habitual use “.

The essential information on a site
At the time of purchase in the pharmacy – adds Magrini – the medicine will be accompanied by an information sheet that aims to promote informed and effective contraception and avoid the inappropriate use of emergency contraception “. Aifa” will develop an ad hoc site , with detailed information on contraception. Contraception, in fact, of which the contraceptive pill represents a possible option, allows all women to plan a pregnancy. Finally, I remember -concludes the CEO of Aifa- that the drug is on the list of essential drugs of the World Health Organization for this indication since 2017, as part of the programs for access to contraceptive drugs “.

Protection for future mothers
“Adolescent mothers, according to the Medicines Agency,” are not only less likely to complete their studies and, consequently, less possibilities for employment and future integration into the world of work, but also more likely to raise their children alone and in poverty. Finally, adolescent pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of perinatal mortality.

The error in the Gazzetta
In the last few days it had been erroneously published in the Official Gazette the news that changed the dispensing regimen of the Norlevo morning pill, re-governing the obligation to renew the medical prescription from time to time, abolished as of 2016 for adult girls. But Federfarma had immediately clarified that it was a publication error in the Official Gazette.