ella was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as safe and effective in helping to prevent unintended pregnancy for up to five days after unprotected intercourse (UPI) or a known contraceptive failure.
Watson Pharma said that the oral contraceptive ella delays ovulation for up to five days, which is also the length of time that sperm can live in the female genital tract, and can be taken at any time during the menstrual cycle.
Watson Global Brands executive vice president Fred Wilkinson said that ella has a sustained efficacy profile and offers women an additional therapeutic option for preventing unintended pregnancy.
"We are committed to making this prescription-only emergency contraceptive option available to women as soon as possible and supporting the availability of ella in ways that emphasise education and access," said Wilkinson.