Opill, the first over-the-counter birth control pill that can be purchased without a prescription, is set to launch later this month online and in pharmacies. This groundbreaking development is hailed as a game-changer in improving access to birth control for women by eliminating the need for a doctor’s prescription, which can be costly or burdensome for many depending on their location or health insurance coverage. The pill, which has been on the market for 50 years as a prescription birth control, was deemed safe and effective for over-the-counter use by the FDA in July.
The availability of Opill at major retailers like CVS and Walgreens, as well as through the company’s website, is expected to increase access to birth control. However, the cost of the pill will be a key factor in determining its accessibility. While most insurance plans cover prescription birth control under the Affordable Care Act, laws for birth control without a prescription vary by state. Those without insurance or opting for privacy reasons will have to pay $15-20 out of pocket per month, depending on their chosen supply plan.
A survey from November 2022 found that around 39% of women are willing to pay $1-10 for birth control, with slightly fewer willing to pay $11-20 per month. However, 11% of women stated they were unable or unwilling to pay anything for over-the-counter birth control pills. Opill has announced plans for a cost-assistance program to assist low-income, uninsured individuals in obtaining the pill at a reduced or no cost, aiming to make this crucial form of contraception more accessible to all.