McCartan’s Pharmacy provides emergency hormonal contraception (sometimes called the morning-after pill) to help prevent an unplanned pregnancy after unprotected sex, or if your regular contraception has failed. It is most effective the sooner it is taken — please do not delay.

You do not need a prescription or a GP visit. Come directly to us for a private, confidential consultation.

Timeframes

• Levonorgestrel (e.g. NorLevo) – can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex; most effective as soon as possible
• Ulipristal acetate (e.g. EllaOne) – can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex, and maintains its effectiveness throughout this window
  
  

Is it free?

Emergency hormonal contraception is available free of charge at McCartan’s Pharmacy if you meet either of the following criteria:

• You are aged 17 to 35 (inclusive) and ordinarily resident in Ireland — covered under the HSE Free Contraception Scheme
• You hold a valid medical card — regardless of your age

If you do not fall into either category, emergency contraception is still available to purchase directly from us. Our pharmacists are here to help without judgement — everything discussed is completely confidential.