Introducing the REMINDER CARD: A Solution to Remembering the Pill

Strategic Insights -

The introduction of the birth control pill, The Pill, in 1960 has significantly impacted family planning and reproductive health. However, despite its popularity, women often struggle with remembering to take their pill every day, as highlighted in a 1998 Gallup Survey of Contraceptive Use Among Women 18-44. Almost half of women taking oral contraceptives miss a pill at least once a month. This challenge has led to the development of the REMINDER CARD, a small plastic card that beeps daily to remind women to take their pill. The REMINDER CARD is designed to address the issue of compliance, a key factor in oral contraceptive efficacy and minimization of side effects.

Key Takeaways:

  • According to a 1998 Gallup Survey of Contraceptive Use Among Women 18-44, women cite remembering to take their pill every day as one of the biggest disadvantages associated with taking The Pill.
  • Almost half of women taking oral contraceptives miss a pill at least once a month, highlighting the importance of a reliable reminder system.
  • The REMINDER CARD is a small plastic card that beeps daily to remind women to take their pill, addressing the issue of compliance and improving treatment efficacy.
  • The card is programmed using a microchip timer, allowing for a consistent reminder schedule over a period of three months.
  • The REMINDER CARD will be available free through health care providers, beginning September 1, 1999, with all new prescriptions of MIRCETTE(TM).
  • Organon Inc., the manufacturer of MIRCETTE(TM), is committed to reproductive health research and development, and has a strong commitment to healthcare, conducting research in various areas including psychiatry, contraception, and fertility.
  • Akzo Nobel N.V., the parent company of Organon, is a global leader in healthcare, coatings, chemicals, and fibers, with consolidated sales of $13.8 billion in 1998.

Statistics:

  • 2.8 million unintended pregnancies occur in the U.S. every year, with approximately 1 million attributed to misuse, failure, or discontinuation of the birth control pill.
  • The REMINDER CARD is designed to improve compliance, which is a key factor in oral contraceptive efficacy and minimization of side effects.
  • Organon Inc. employs a strong commitment to research and development in the areas of reproductive health.
  • Akzo Nobel N.V. serves customers in over 70 countries, with 86,000 employees worldwide.
  • Akzo Nobel's North American sales total approximately $3 billion annually.

Sources:

  • A 1998 Gallup Survey of Contraceptive Use Among Women 18-44.
  • Organon Inc.
  • Akzo Nobel N.V.
  • Temple University School of Medicine.