FDA panel unanimously backs safety and effectiveness of new morning after pill

FDA panel unanimously backs new morning after pill

WASHINGTON — Federal health experts say a new type of morning-after pill that works longer than existing products is safe and effective.

The Food and Drug Administration’s panel of reproductive health experts voted unanimously that the pill ellaOne successfully reduces the chance of pregnancy for up to five days after sex. Plan B, the most widely used emergency contraceptive pill, is only effective if women take it within three days of having sex.

The positive recommendation from the panel moves the pill, which is already approved in Europe, one step closer to the U.S. market. The FDA is not required to follow the panel’s advice, though it often does.