Why Plan B Matters

While Barr's attempt to switch the emergency contraceptive Plan B to over-the-counter status is immaterial to the company, the rest of the drug industry can't afford to ignore the controversy, which could jeopardize the renewal of crucial legislation that supports fast and predictable reviews of all new drugs. Moreover, FDA may be reopening old controversies, like whether third parties can force an OTC switch against a brand company's wishes.

By Michael McCaughan

Barr Pharmaceuticals Inc. CEO Bruce Downey likes to joke about the disproportionate attention garnered by his company's emergency contraceptive product levonorgestrel (Plan B). During a November 17 presentation to...

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