Federal Court "Morning-after pill" remains reserved for pharmacies after consultation
The Federal Supreme Court has ruled that the morning-after pill is still only available in pharmacies after a consultation. The demand to make it available in drugstores was rejected.
13.11.2024, 12:00
SDA
The morning-after pill will continue to be available exclusively in pharmacies, and only after a detailed consultation with a pharmacist. The Federal Supreme Court reached this decision by rejecting the appeals of the marketing authorization holder.
The marketing authorization holder had applied for its two preparations to be classified in a medicinal product category that would have allowed them to be dispensed in drugstores following a specialist consultation. The Federal Supreme Court announced the rejection of these appeals on Wednesday.
The court found that a consultation with a healthcare professional is still necessary in order to protect the user. This consultation clarifies whether and which preparation is suitable for the respective user, particularly in the case of pre-existing conditions or the use of other medication.
The consultation also serves to explain possible adverse effects and how to deal with them in order to ensure that the preparations are effective in preventing pregnancy.
Court ruling confirms protective measures
The judgments of 15 October 2024 (2C_69/2023, 2C_72/2023) underline the importance of the expert discussion as a protective measure for users. The Federal Supreme Court emphasizes that advice from qualified staff in pharmacies is essential to ensure the safe use of the morning-after pill.
