THE PHARMACIST'S ROLE IN ADVISING THE USE OF EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVES

Abstract

Among the contraceptive methods marketed in Brazil, there is emergency contraception, the well-known “morning-after pill”, which is used to avoid unwanted pregnancies. The indication of this drug provides for atypical circumstances such as the incorrect use of another contraceptive method and in situations that refer to sexual abuse or rape. Therefore, indiscriminate use can lead to problems for women's health. It is understood that the ease of access to purchase this medication enables self-medication, which becomes a public health problem. In this regard, pharmaceutical guidance is essential to break with the culture of indiscriminate self-medication, thus avoiding complications to women's health arising from the inappropriate use of this medication.