FDA approves first over-the-counter hormonal birth control pill

The Food and Drug Administration announced on Thursday morning its approval of the progestin-only oral contraceptive Opill for over-the-counter use.

“Today’s approval marks the first time a nonprescription daily oral contraceptive will be an available option for millions of people in the United States,” said the Director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Patrizia Cavazzoni.

This decision comes after an advisory panel in May unanimously supported the proposal to grant over-the-counter approval to the Irish-based company Perrigo's contraceptive.

"When properly used, Opill is safe and effective," the FDA said.