Women aged 18 years and over are now able to buy Pfizer’s branded version of norethisterone, Utovlan, from any of Superdrug’s 205 pharmacies across the UK, the multiple announced on Wednesday (August 7).

Following a free consultation and questionnaire with a Superdrug pharmacist, women can buy a pack of 30 tablets for £29, 60 for £45 and 90 for £59.

The tablets are taken three times a day, with the first taken three days before the expected period begins. The period will then be delayed until three days after the final tablet, the multiple explained.

The pharmacist consultation includes a full medical history, reasons for supply and other relevant information, Superdrug told C+D.

Pharmacy staff also “keep accurate records and have a clear protocol” to ensure women are not bulk buying the pills, it added.

Superdrug healthcare director Michael Henry said making the tablets more widely available through its patient group direction service “allows women to make the choice easily and quickly should they choose to delay their period”.

Superdrug’s health ambassador Dr Pixie McKenna said patients should be advised to read the patient information leaflet before taking the medication.