Emergency contraceptive tablet to help prevent an unintended pregnancy

There is good news for college students as they head back to campus this fall. A new emergency contraceptive, Plan B® One-Step (levonorgestrel) tablet, 1.5 mg, is now available at the local pharmacy for all students 17 and older.

"With new Plan B® One-Step, women can now help prevent an unintended pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure with just one pill in one dose," comments Ashlesha Patel, MD, Ob/Gyn at John H. Stroger, Jr., Hospital of Cook County in Chicago. "Emergency contraception is more effective the sooner it's taken, and Plan B® One-Step provides a back-up plan that's only one pill away."

"Unintended pregnancy spikes among college-age women, so it's critical that they know their sexual health options," comments Kelli Conlin, President of the National Institute for Reproductive Health. "I encourage all women to use primary contraception consistently and correctly, and also keep emergency contraception on-hand in their dorm room or apartment so it's readily available if the unexpected does happen."