Misinformation on Emergency Contraception can be Common

A recent article in the Official Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics found that while most pharmacies report having Emergency Contraception (EC) in stock, misinformation about it is common. This often included who can take EC and at what age it is available without a prescription. This misinformation was shared, not only with teen callers, but also with physicians.

Check out the full study here.

in 2009 the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) made EC available without a prescription to individuals aged 17 years or older. People younger than 17 may obtain EC with a prescription. To obtain EC, consumers must request the medication from a pharmacy staff member, because it is stocked behind the pharmacy counter, and present identification to establish their age.

Emergency Contraception is most effective when it is taken within the first 72 hours, thus, misinformation may create barriers to timely access.