TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A debate over making emergency oral contraceptives, commonly referred to as the “morning-after pill,” available as an over-the-counter medication continues with health experts studying an ongoing Japanese trial.
The Food and Drug Administration convened a meeting on Wednesday to discuss increasing the availability of the drug by changing its designation from prescription medicine to over-the-counter medicine that can be sold by pharmacists. Japanese pharmacies are permitted to sell the pill without a prescription to those over 16, though consumption is required on the premises, and a follow-up gynecological clinic visit is required three weeks later, per CNA.
FDA Medicinal Product Division Deputy Head Lin Yi-chu (林意筑) said Taiwan is looking to reclassify the contraceptive though it affects the medical community, pharmacists, parents, and child welfare groups. While each group may express its concerns, there should be a consensus to protect women's health.
Lin said the Japanese study will run until March 2026, involving 300 pharmacies and participating gynecology clinics. Taiwan health experts will observe and collect feedback from the trial, and tailor a similar trial suited to domestic conditions, followed by an ethics review committee.
The emergency contraceptive works by inhibiting or delaying ovulation as well as making it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg. The contraceptive is most effective when taken 72 hours after unprotected sex, but it is not suitable for long-term use.
Tai Yi-yun (戴怡芸), a physician at National Taiwan University Hospital Department of Medical Genetics, said many worry that oral contraceptives will lead to infertility. Tai said normal ovulation function returns three months after oral contraceptives have stopped.
Tai reminded the public that the withdrawal method of contraception can be ineffective, as prostatic fluid may contain sperm. Tai said condoms are a cost-effective contraceptive method, with vasectomies the most foolproof method of preventing pregnancy.
