FDA is looking at Pa. 'morning-after' pill machine

By Kevin Begos

Associated Press

Published: Tuesday, Feb. 7 2012 3:36 p.m. MST

This undated photo provided by Shippensburg University shows the vending machine at Shippensburg University's Etter Health Center that provides the Plan B emergency contraceptive along with condoms, decongestants and pregnancy tests. The pill is available without a prescription to anyone 17 or older, and the school checked records and found that all current students are that age or older, spokesman Peter Gigliotti said. The pill’s availability in a vending machine is so new that state officials aren’t sure whether it complies with rules.

Shippensburg University, Associated Press

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Summary

. Food and Drug Administration is gathering facts about a vending machine at a Pennsylvania college that dispenses the "morning-after" pill.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is gathering facts about a vending machine at a Pennsylvania college that dispenses the "morning-after" pill.

Spokeswoman Stephanie Yao said Tuesday that the agency is contacting officials with Shippensburg University and in state government.

The Plan B One Step emergency contraceptive can prevent pregnancy if taken soon after sexual intercourse. It's legally available without a prescription but must be kept behind the pharmacy counter.

Shippensburg officials note that access to the vending machine in the student health center is restricted.

Some experts also note there are problems with giving people open access to a drug like the Plan B without having to talk to a doctor.

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