- In September 2023, Medicines360, a rare nonprofit pharma, spent USD 82 million to bring a $50 hormonal IUD, Liletta, to market. Despite hurdles like FDA regulations, funding challenges, and market resistance, it expanded access for low-income women, saving the U.S. healthcare system USD 100 million and sparking ongoing legislative efforts for nonprofit drug development.
- In January 2024, Medicines360, a nonprofit women’s health pharmaceutical organization, in partnership with Theramex, announced the commercial launch of LILETTA (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) in Canada. This milestone expands access to long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) for Canadian women, aligning with public health efforts to improve reproductive health options and equity.
- In July 2021, the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) announced that progestogen-only contraceptive pills could be purchased without a prescription. Women can now access these pills after consulting with a pharmacist, improving access to contraception and promoting easier, more flexible healthcare services across pharmacies.
- In April 2021, Mayne Pharma Group Limited and Mithra Pharmaceuticals received U.S. FDA approval for NEXTSTELLIS, an oral contraceptive. It is the first and only pill containing estetrol, a natural estrogen produced from plant sources. NEXTSTELLIS offers a novel option for women seeking effective and hormone-balanced birth control.
- In January 2021, Teva Pharmaceuticals API launched a generic version of NuvaRing in the U.S. market. This estrogen/progestin combination hormonal contraceptive (CHC) is designed for women to prevent pregnancy. The generic release expands access to affordable birth control options, offering a trusted, ring-based alternative to branded products.
