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Japan Approves Over-the-Counter Sales of Morning-After Pill

10/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Japan approved the over-the-counter sale of Norlevo, the morning-after pill, for the first time.
The emergency contraceptive will be sold without a prescription, with pharmacist guidance.
ASKA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. announced the decision.
The company aims to empower women in reproductive health.
The move followed years of advocacy to ease access, noting prescription requirements hindered younger women and victims of sexual assault.

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Story summary

Japan approved the over-the-counter sale of Norlevo, the morning-after pill, for the first time.
The emergency contraceptive will be sold without a prescription, with pharmacist guidance.
ASKA Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. announced the decision.
The company aims to empower women in reproductive health.
The move followed years of advocacy to ease access, noting prescription requirements hindered younger women and victims of sexual assault.