Plan B® Pharmacists: What is Plan B®?

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Plan B^® is the only FDA-approved emergency contraceptive currently available, composed of two (levonorgestrel, 0.75 mg) progestin-only tablets. It reduces the chance of pregnancy by up to 89% when taken as directed within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, contraceptive failure, or sexual assault.¹ However, Plan B^® is more effective the sooner it’s taken, especially within the first 24 hours.¹ The first tablet should be taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, and the second tablet 12 hours later.

Plan B^® is different from other emergency contraceptive formulations such as the Yuzpe regimen (levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol) in that it contains no estrogen.

Plan B^® is available behind the counter at pharmacies and sold under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. A prescription is needed for women under 17 and younger.

Plan B^® isn't RU-486 (the abortion pill). Plan B^® will not affect an existing pregnancy.

Plan B^® isn't a substitute for a routine contraception method; it should not be used that way, because it is not as effective as other methods of birth control used consistently and correctly.

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Important Safety Information:

For more information about Plan B®, call 1-800-330-1271

Important Safety Information: Plan B^® is indicated to prevent pregnancy following unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Plan B^® is contraindicated in women with known or suspected pregnancy, hypersensitivity to any component of the product. Plan B^® is not recommended for routine use as a contraceptive, because it isn't as effective. Plan B^® is not effective in terminating an existing pregnancy. Plan B^® does not protect against HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Menstrual bleeding may be heavier or lighter, earlier or later after taking Plan B^®. If menses is delayed beyond one week, the patient may be pregnant. Severe abdominal pain may signal a tubal (ectopic) pregnancy. Common side effects associated with the use of Plan B^® include nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, menstrual changes, dizziness, breast tenderness, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Your patients are encouraged to report any negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.