News that Canada’s health department had approved the morning after pill, Preven, in early March has prompted a boycott from anti-choice groups, who previously were unaware of the approval.
Roberts Pharmaceutical Canada Inc. is advertising the pill as a contraceptive that prevents pregnancy and will market Preven in Canada. Preven prevents pregnancy if taken up to 72 hours after intercourse by suppressing ovulation and preventing implantation of a fertilized egg. Abortion opponents have instituted a boycott of all products produced by Roberts Pharmaceutical as well as pharmacies distributing the drug. Preven was approved in the United States in 1998. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. has refused to sell Preven in its pharmacies.
Planned Parenthood Canada Executive Director Bonnie Johnson expects the demand for Preven will rise once people learn of the drug, saying “We’ve been waiting for this since 1974, so obviously we’re ecstatic.” Abortion was legalized in Canada with a 1988 Supreme Court decision.
