In a move that could significantly impact access to abortion medication, two major pharmacy chains, Walgreens and CVS, are set to begin dispensing the abortion pill mifepristone in select states within the coming weeks.
Both companies confirmed they received certification to dispense mifepristone and plan a phased rollout.
Phased Rollout Planned
Walgreens will begin “within a week” in a limited number of stores across New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, California, and Illinois.
CVS will follow “in the weeks ahead” starting with Massachusetts and Rhode Island, with plans to expand to other states where legal.
While both companies are eager to expand access, they prioritize legal and safe dispensing. Walgreens won’t operate in states with unclear laws to protect pharmacists and staff.
Additionally, they currently hold certification from Danco Labs, the brand manufacturer, but plan to seek certification from generic manufacturer GenBioPro as well. CVS is securing medication and hasn’t begun dispensing yet.
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CVS & Walgreens Pursue Mifepristone Certification
These developments follow the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) January 2023 ruling allowing retail pharmacies to sell mifepristone. Walgreens initiated the certification process after this ruling. However, the legality of the FDA’s decision faces an upcoming Supreme Court challenge from an anti-abortion rights group.
President Biden praised this move as an “important milestone” in ensuring access to medication abortion.
Patients in some states will soon be able to obtain mifepristone at local pharmacies, similar to other medications. The decision by these major pharmacies could significantly increase access to abortion medication for many women.
This is a developing story, and it remains to be seen how the Supreme Court case will impact the availability of mifepristone through pharmacies.
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