Plan B Contraceptive Pill

Also known as a "morning-after pill," Plan B One-Step™ (levonorgestrel) is an emergency contraceptive that is used to prevent pregnancy when used within 72 hours after unprotected sex. Plan B originally came in a two-step formulation, which consisted of two tablets taken 12 hours apart. It has been replaced by the new formulation, which consists of just one tablet.

 

Plan B is available by prescription for people under 17 years old or over-the-counter (OTC) for those 17 and older. In some states, specially trained pharmacists may dispense the medication to all women, regardless of age, without a prescription. Taking Plan B within 72 hours after unprotected sex reduces the risk of pregnancy by 89 percent.