Emergency contraceptives to help prevent unintended pregnancy are available over-the-counter in Japan for the first time as of Monday, allowing the drugs to be purchased at approximately 5,400 pharmacies and drugstores nationwide.
The product approved for retail sale is NorLevo, marketed by Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare. The recommended retail price is ?7,480 ($48) for a single pill. When taken within 72 hours after sexual intercourse, it is about 80% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Until now, emergency contraceptives ¡ª often referred to as the ¡°morning-after pill¡± ¡ª were classified as prescription drugs requiring a doctor¡¯s note. However, because their effectiveness declines if they are not taken soon after intercourse, calls for over-the-counter access grew.
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.