Women are now able to purchase a hormonal contraceptive pill from their local pharmacy without the need to see their GP. Certain brands of Desogestrel 75 mg tablets, a progesteron only pill (POP) will be reclassified as a P-med, allowing customers to obtain a supply, after assessing that it is safe and suitable, from a suitably trained pharmacist.
Desogestrel is a synthetic progestin and when taken correctly, as one tablet taken daily at the same time each day without a break, can be an effective form of contraception, inhibiting ovulation in up 97% of cycles.
Pharmacists are advised to brief their teams about the launch of these new products and how to engage customers who attend the pharmacy requesting the oral contraceptive over the counter and how to refer to the pharmacist
We recommended that pharmacists complete the relevant training packs provided by the manufacturers to ensure they have the appropriate clinical knowledge and awareness of when a supply can be made or when it may be contraindicated. Undertaking training should also ensure they are confident in making a recommendation and providing the appropriate advice on how to take the medication, including “quick starting” the pill. Pharmacists should also make themselves aware of when they should refer the customer to an alternative appropriate healthcare professional if they have a history of breast, ovarian or uterine cancer or liver cancer or other liver disease or type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
For more information about the P-med Desogestrel see Summary of Product Characteristics:
For training: