Are Abortion Pills Available Without a Prescription? Myths vs. Facts
Introduction
With increasing discussions around abortion access, many people wonder whether abortion pills can be obtained without a prescription. Misinformation online has led to confusion about the legality, safety, and availability of medication abortion. This article breaks down common myths and provides factual information to help you make an informed decision.
Myth 1: Abortion Pills Are Available Over-the-Counter Like Plan B
Fact: Abortion pills require a prescription.
Unlike Plan B (the morning-after pill), which is available over the counter, abortion pills—mifepristone and misoprostol—require a prescription from a certified healthcare provider in the United States. The FDA regulates these medications under the Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program, meaning they can only be dispensed through specific channels.
Myth 2: You Can Buy Abortion Pills Without a Prescription at CVS or Walgreens
Fact: CVS and Walgreens require a prescription.
Although CVS and Walgreens have started dispensing mifepristone in certain states, they do not sell it without a prescription. Patients must first consult with a licensed provider who can issue the prescription before picking up the medication at these pharmacies.
To find a Walgreens or CVS location that carries mifepristone, you can use our Walgreens API Store Locator or check our access guide.
Myth 3: Online Pharmacies Sell FDA-Approved Abortion Pills Without a Prescription
Fact: Only certified telehealth providers can prescribe abortion pills online.
Some websites claim to sell abortion pills without a prescription, but many operate outside of U.S. regulations and may offer unsafe or counterfeit medications. The safest way to access abortion pills online is through legally operating telehealth services, like SameDayAbortionPills.com and HeyJane, which connect patients with licensed providers who can prescribe FDA-approved medication for pharmacy pickup or mail delivery.
Myth 4: Anyone Can Order Abortion Pills by Mail Without Medical Supervision
Fact: A telehealth consultation is required for mail delivery in most states.
Several states allow patients to have abortion pills mailed to their homes after a telehealth consultation with a provider. However, some states have laws banning telemedicine abortion, requiring an in-person visit to obtain the medication. Check your state’s laws on our Abortion Laws page to see if mail delivery is available in your area.
Myth 5: All Online Abortion Pill Services Are Illegal
Fact: Licensed online providers offer legal and safe options.
Many telehealth services—including SameDayAbortionPills.com and HeyJane —are legally allowed to prescribe and mail abortion pills in states where it is permitted. The key is ensuring that the provider is licensed and follows FDA guidelines for prescribing and dispensing mifepristone and misoprostol.
How to Safely Get Abortion Pills
If you are considering medication abortion, make sure to follow these steps for safe and legal access:
- Consult a Licensed Provider – Schedule a telehealth consultation with a certified healthcare provider through a trusted platform like SameDayAbortionPills.com and Heyjane.
- Get a Prescription – Your provider will determine your eligibility and issue a prescription if appropriate.
- Pick Up or Receive by Mail – You can choose to pick up your prescription at Walgreens, CVS, or another pharmacy, or have it shipped to your home or a PO box where legally allowed.
- Follow Medical Guidance – Carefully follow the dosage instructions and seek medical help if you have any concerns.
Beware of Unverified Online Pharmacies
Some websites claim to sell abortion pills without a prescription, and Plan C provides a list of such websites under their “Websites That Sell Pills” category. However, they include a disclaimer warning that these sources may come with risks, including:
- Unregulated Medications – Some websites may sell abortion pills that are not FDA-approved, meaning quality and effectiveness are uncertain.
- Misoprostol-Only Regimens – Many of these sources provide only misoprostol, which is less effective than the recommended combination of mifepristone + misoprostol that we offer. The combination regimen has a higher success rate (95-99%), whereas misoprostol alone is less effective and may require additional doses.
- Legal & Safety Concerns – In some states, purchasing abortion pills from unregulated sources may pose legal risks or limit access to medical support if complications arise.
For safe, legal, and effective medication abortion, it’s essential to obtain pills from a certified provider. At SameDayAbortionPills.com, we offer FDA-approved mifepristone and misoprostol through licensed prescribers, ensuring access to a medically supervised and more effective regimen.
Conclusion
Despite common myths, abortion pills are not available over the counter and require a prescription from a licensed provider. While online access has made it easier for patients to obtain medication abortion, it’s important to ensure you are using a legally operating service to receive safe, FDA-approved pills.
For safe, confidential access to abortion pills, click Get Started