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Jacquelyne Froeber

HealthyWomen's Senior Editor

Jacquelyne Froeber is an award-winning journalist and editor. She’s the former editor-in-chief of Celebrated Living magazine and has editing and writing experience for print and online publications, including Health magazine, Coastal Living magazine and AARP.org. As a breast cancer survivor, Jacquelyne encourages everyone to perform self-exams and get their mammograms.

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The First OTC Birth Control Pill Heads to a Supermarket Near You

You can now buy birth control without a prescription at some major retailers across the U.S.

Your Health
birth control pills

Did someone say reproductive rights on aisle 4?

Well, it’s about time! The country’s first FDA-approved, over-the-counter (OTC) birth control pill is now available in some retailers across the country.

That means you can walk in and purchase Opill, a progestin-only birth control pill, without a prescription. The FDA approved Opill back in July 2023. Now it’s showing up in major pharmacies and grocery stores including Walgreens, CVS and Walmart.

Read: Why Access to Contraception Matters for Women of All Ages >>

If you’re not seeing it in your local store, don’t worry: Shipments of the birth control started in March so it may take more time to see it on the shelves near you. But you can buy Opill online from the retailers above and at opill.com.

Yes, you read that right. Opill is available online without a prescription. Virtual cheers to another first for access to contraceptives!

Here’s more on what you need to know about Opill.

What is Opill?

Opill birth control is a progestin-only pill (also called the mini pill) that can help prevent pregnancy. It contains one hormone, norgestrel, and is estrogen-free, which makes it OK for most people to use.

Read: What You Need to Know About the Mini Pill >>

How do you take Opill?

You should take one pill at the same time every day. Note: Opill doesn’t start working until two days after you take the first pill. To prevent pregnancy during this time, use another form of barrier birth control, like a condom, spermicide, cervical cap or diaphragm.

Do you need health insurance to buy Opill?

Nope. You can walk into any store carrying Opill and purchase it without insurance. And no one will ask you for your insurance information.

Who shouldn’t take Opill?

You shouldn’t take Opill if you:

  • Have breast cancer or had breast cancer in the past
  • Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
  • Are taking birth control pills or using another form of birth control, including a vaginal ring, patch, implant, injection or IUD

Also, if you’re taking medication for seizures, tuberculosis, HIV or AIDS, or pulmonary hypertension, talk to your healthcare provider (HCP) or your pharmacist before taking Opill. Medications for these health conditions may interact with the pill and make it less effective. Opill may also interact with morning after pill.

How much does Opill cost?

Opill costs $19.99 for a month supply, $49.99 for a three-month supply and $89.99 for a six-month supply. If you need assistance with the cost of Opill, read about the Opill Cost Assistance Program (Opill CAP). You may be eligible to get the pill for free or at a reduced cost.

If you’re interested in taking the non-prescription pill, it’s always a good idea to talk to your HCP before taking any new medications. But we can all celebrate this step toward access to contraception.

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