In February 2011, the Irish Medicines Board announced their decision to make the emergency contraceptive pill Norlevo® 1.5mg available over the counter in Irish pharmacies.  DocMorris & Unicarepharmacy welcomed this decision and immediately put a protocol in place to ensure customers are looked after appropriately.  Following consultation with The Crisis Pregnancy Programme, we are confident that our customers can avail of the most thorough Emergency Contraception Service in any of our 72 pharmacies.

If you require Emergency Contraception, commonly referred to as 'The Morning After Pill', call to any DocMorris or Unicarepharmacy and our well-trained colleagues will look after you. 

What happens when I go to the pharmacy?

The pharmacist will take you through a short questionnaire in private.  This will determine whether it is suitable for you to take the Emergency Contraceptive pill.  If for any reason it is not suitable, we will direct you another source of help and support.

Why might it not be suitable for me to take this medicine?

Some of the reasons it may not be suitable to supply Norlevo® 1.5mg include:

• too much time has passed for the medicine to be effective
• you are taking other medicines that interact with Norlevo® 1.5mg
• you have an existing medical condition that means it is not safe to take Norlevo® 1.5mg
• your last period was irregular in some way.

If I am suitable to take the medicine, what happens?

You will be supplied with the medication, along with advice from the pharmacist on how it should be taken.  Your pharmacist will also offer you advice on the options available for long-term methods of contraception.  We will give you information on STIs and the importance of safe-sex in protecting yourself and your partner.

How much does this service cost?

The current cost of this service, including the medicine, is €15.00*.  You will not be charged any fee if the pharmacist finds that it is unsafe to supply you with the medicine.  Customers purchasing Norlevo® 1.5mg will receive informational literature and a pregnancy test kit.

Where can I find out more information?

Your pharmacist will answer any questions you may have in strictest confidence.  For further information on Emergency Contraception and all matters relating to sexual health, visit www.thinkcontraception.ie

*DocMorris & Unicarepharmacy may review the price of this service if terms of supply deem necessary.  We are committed to ensuring the service remains affordable.