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Superdrug makes generic EHC move

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Superdrug makes generic EHC move

High street health and beauty chain Superdrug has started selling a generic levonorgestrel pill at ‘half the price’ of branded alternatives.

The version of the emergency contraception has gone on sale for £13.49 at 200 branches nationwide.

Superdrug healthcare director Michael Henry said: “Its availability will give women more choice and access to this medication at a time when they are most in need.”

The dose sold by Superdrug can halt unwanted pregnancies up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. However, that is less than brands such as EllaOne, which can be taken up to five days later.

Those who want to buy the pill will also need to undergo a brief consultation, and usual medical restrictions on who it can be sold to will apply.

The move was welcomed by the British Pregnancy Advisory Service. Chief executive, Ann Furedi, commented: "We are delighted Superdrug has taken this trailblazing step, and look forward to other major retailers following its lead. We know the high cost of emergency contraception can be a major barrier to women accessing it when their regular method fails.

"Superdrug has illustrated that it's perfectly possible to sell this safe and effective medication to women at a significantly more affordable price than is currently on offer. There is frankly now no excuse for others not to do the same. We will keep campaigning on this issue until all retailers do the right thing and offer women a fairly priced product, as Superdrug is doing today."

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