FDA’s decision concerning Plan B morning-after pill has both sides of the issue holding their breath.

Pro-Choice and Anti-Abortion groups remain skeptical over the FDA’s consideration to make the morning-after pill, commonly referred to as Plan B, available over the counter. The approval would carry some restrictions including the limitation of sales to those 18 and older.

President Bush’s administration would like to ensure that there is a system that would restrict minors from purchasing the pill. Bush’s apparent backing of the controversial pill has made those on each side of the issue skeptical.

As the Senate confirmation hearing for the administration's nominee for Food and Drug Administration commissioner meets today many feel that Bush’s endorsement is only a ploy to get his nominee, Andrew von Eschenbach, approved.

The hearings for Dr. von Eschenbach's have been stalled by Senators Hillary Clinton and Patty Murray who have vowed to block any vote until the FDA decision is made. The two recall the same rhetoric last year when they were promised a quick decision concerning Plan B. That pledge was enough for them to release holds on another FDA nominee Lester Crawford. The result of that pledge angered Mrs. Clinton who said “they made a decision, and their decision was not to make a decision.”

With the power to hold up the nomination process for as long as they want, the two senators have learned their lesson. Washington Democrat Patty Murray said, “Fool me once. We're not going to go there again,”

Anti-Abortion groups have expressed their belief that the pill is unsafe and pointed to the five deaths in the U.S. that have been linked to Plan B. The seemingly aggressive push by the Bush administration to make the drug available as a nonprescription over the counter purchase has angered some in the Republican Party. Senator Coburn of Nebraska believes Bush has sacrificed the issue so that he may see Eschenback nominated. Coburn said “Bowing to short-term political concerns in this debate could endanger the health and safety of thousands of Americans.”

The morning-after pill has been available by doctor’s prescription since 1999. In 2003, the drug manufacturer Barr Pharmaceuticals proposed making the pill available over the counter to those 16 and older. Last year the FDA drug safety office stated that those 17 years of age should have access to the drug. Eschenback, who is serving as the acting commissioner of the FDA, bumped the age up an additional year in the latest letter.

It was revealed that political appointees inside the FDA had overruled staff scientists and outside advisory panels who believed access to the morning-after pill was safe.

Opponents of the measure to allow access without prescription by those 18 years and older have expressed doubt that the FDA could actually monitor the accuracy of purchasers age.

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