The FDA decision does not pertain to the two other emergency contraceptive drugs marketed in the United States.

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It was the first government report on the emergency contraceptive since regulators eased access to it seven years ago.

BBC: Morning-after pill use rises in US

Does the administration believe that emergency contraceptive, because of its function, is in a different category than those other OTC medicines?

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefing

The Plan B emergency contraceptive pill works by preventing ovulation or by blocking a potentially fertilized egg from becoming implanted in a woman's uterus, according to the drug's label.

WSJ: Corrections & Amplifications

"Research has shown that access to emergency contraceptive products has the potential to further decrease the rate of unintended pregnancies in the United States, " said FDA Commissioner Dr. Margaret A. Hamburg in a statement.

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The Food and Drug Administration denied a petition Monday by a reproductive rights advocacy group that sought to lift all prescription requirements for an older version of the Plan B emergency contraceptive pill on the eve of a federal court hearing on the issue.

WSJ: FDA Keeps Limits on Other 'Plan B' Contraceptive

That's why when a woman fears she might become pregnant after her contraceptive has failed or she has had unprotected sex, she needs fast access to emergency contraception, not delays at the pharmacy counter.

CNN: Morning-after pill a boon for women