A more effective emergency contraception, ulipristal (EllaOne), is set to be available over the counter
A more effective emergency contraception, ulipristal (EllaOne) is set to become available over the counter in February 2017.
The TGA announced its decision, based on ulipristal’s efficacy in preventing pregnancy up to five days (120 hours) following unprotected sex.
A meta-analysis has also shown it is also more effective than levonorgestrel if used at 24 and 72 hours, according to Dr Deborah Bateson, Medical Director, Family Planning NSW.
The safety and toxicity of ulipristal is on par with levonorgestrel, and there is no evidence of potential for abuse, the TGA committee determined.
There was minimal risk of it being used as an abortifacient with currently available doses, they added.
The emergency contraceptive was approved by the regulator in March 2015 for prescription-only availability as an alternative to levonorgestrel.
Australia now joins at least 25 European countries where ulipristal is available without a prescription.
