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Pharmaceutical care in emergency contraception.
1University of Washington School of Pharmacy, Seattle, USA.
Journal of the American Pharmaceutical Association (Washington, D.C. : 1996)
|September 26, 2002
Summary
Emergency contraception (EC) can greatly lower unintended pregnancies. Available through pharmacists, EC is safe and effective when used soon after unprotected sex.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
Background:
- High rates of unintended pregnancy persist globally.
- Emergency contraception (EC) offers a crucial intervention to prevent pregnancy post-unprotected intercourse.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the potential of widespread emergency contraception availability in reducing unintended pregnancies.
- To underscore the safety and efficacy profile of EC.
- To identify the role of pharmacists in EC provision and patient education.
Main Methods:
- Review of EC's pharmacological mechanisms (ovulation, fertilization, implantation inhibition).
- Analysis of EC's effectiveness, particularly timing of administration.
- Assessment of pharmacist's position in patient counseling and dispensing.
Main Results:
- Emergency contraception is highly effective, especially when administered promptly after unprotected intercourse.
- EC demonstrates a favorable safety profile, comparable to other contraceptive methods.
- Pharmacists are well-positioned to enhance access to EC through education and dispensing.
Conclusions:
- Increased accessibility and utilization of EC can significantly decrease unintended pregnancy rates.
- Pharmacist-led initiatives, supported by collaborative drug therapy agreements, can optimize EC's public health impact.