Opill®'s Story: Expanding Access to Safe Contraception
Expanding access to safe and effective contraception in the US
Learn more about Opill
The first prescription birth control pill changed lives across the country. It gave people more control over their reproductive health and helped them plan for the future. But prescription oral contraceptives can be difficult to access for many individuals — especially those at a higher risk of unintended pregnancy. After nearly a decade of research and collaboration, Opill became the first prescription-free daily birth control pill in the US. This approval marks a major step forward in reproductive health and will help more people access the safe, effective contraception they deserve.
The journey from Rx to OTC
2015
HRA Pharma kicks off the research needed to apply to FDA to switch Opill from prescription to over-the-counter.
2023
In a landmark decision, the FDA approves Opill as the first OTC daily birth control pill in the US.
1973
Norgestrel (the active ingredient in Opill) tablets are approved for prescription use for daily birth control by the FDA.
2022
After seven years of research and consumer testing, our team officially submits the application to the FDA to make Opill available over-the-counter.
2024
Opill becomes available to purchase online and at most major retailers, bringing convenience and access to those who need it most.
1973
Norgestrel (the active ingredient in Opill) tablets are approved for prescription use for daily birth control by the FDA.
2015
HRA Pharma kicks off the research needed to apply to FDA to switch Opill from prescription to over-the-counter.
2022
After seven years of research and consumer testing, our team officially submits the application to the FDA to make Opill available over-the-counter.
2023
In a landmark decision, the FDA approves Opill as the first OTC daily birth control pill in the US.
2024
Opill becomes available to purchase online and at most major retailers, bringing convenience and access to those who need it most.
Involving consumers at every step
Labeling and testing
Several studies and surveys showed that consumers understood the package label and could follow dosing instructions correctly without a doctor’s supervision.
Package design
Consumers helped choose the name “Opill” for its simplicity and memorability. The package and colors were designed to avoid any gender-based cliches.
Advisory committee hearing
Many brave consumers and advocates gave individual testimonies encouraging Opill’s approval during the FDA’s advisory committee meeting.
‘‘
Contraception is already a complicated journey for many– and needing to get a prescription often makes the process even more challenging. Opill is breaking down barriers and making safe and effective birth control more accessible than ever before. This historic moment is a gamechanger for reproductive health, bringing people birth control on their own terms.”
Evelyn Furia, Senior Director Opill