Abortion pill availability awaits appeal

In certain states, select-locations of Walgreens and CVS will begin dispensing mifepristone, a pill used for abortion. The pill will be sold at Walgreens in California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania, as well as CVS in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. However, this decision may be overturned due to the case brought to the Supreme Court by the Alliance of Hippocratic Medicine. 

Mifepristone, otherwise known by its brand name “Mifeprex,” is used in tandem with another pill, misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, causing the lining of the uterus to break down. Misoprostol then empties the uterus. Misoprostol is already available in pharmacies in certain states and can be used alone, but is more effective when used alongside mifepristone. 

“Having this pill available helps make abortion more accessible and effective, especially to those who don’t have other options,” said senior Cassidy Cu. 

After the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022, abortion has become increasingly more inaccessible to women all over the U.S. Women are faced with fewer options for abortions and can be pressured into going through with an unwanted pregnancy, and certain minority groups are often affected.

“In the U.S., there is a disproportionate effect for women of color,” said health teacher Sue Anderson. “They have a much harder time having access to mifepristone without disparities.” 

Additionally, people who are unable to obtain a safe abortion, whether it be medical or surgical, often turn to unconventional, and often dangerous, methods. 

“I don’t support abortion, but if people don’t have access to safe abortion they are just going to do it illegally, so it might as well just be available,” said senior Ayden Lui.

With mifepristone now becoming more available, there are also some concerns about the safety of the pill. If people are able to get the pill more easily, there is a heightened chance of misuse. However, many are confident that regulations put in place should prevent this.

“The FDA makes clear guidelines to empower consumers to make good decisions,” added Anderson.

In a statement released by the White House, President Joe Biden shared his support for the increasing availability of mifepristone. 

“I encourage all pharmacies that want to pursue this option to seek certification,” said Biden. 

As for the future of abortion in the U.S., Biden assured citizens that there will be more push for safe and legal abortion for all citizens.

“Vice President Harris and I will continue to fight to ensure that women can get the health care they need, and to restore the protections of Roe v. Wade in federal law,” stated Biden. 

Despite this push, there may still be regression, as the Supreme Court will decide on the case of Alliance of Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA later this year.