Hector Duarte Jr. - All Headline News Staff Reporter

In a letter to acting FDA Commissioner Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach, the members of Congress practically accuse the agency of earlier postponing a ruling because of politics.

In a letter dated October 7, they wrote,"We believe this new delay does not truly reflect valid scientific or regulatory concerns."

Barr has pursued over-the-counter sales of its emergency contraceptive drug, called Plan B, for over two years.

The drug contains higher levels of a hormone used in birth control pills and must be taken within 72 hours of sexual intercourse. It was approved as a prescription in 1999.

An FDA advisory panel overwhelmingly supported nonprescription sales, but early last year the FDA rejected Barr's proposal citing concerns about use among teen-aged girls younger than 16.

The drug maker refiled its bid, proposing over-the-counter sales for those 16 and older.

In August, the FDA announced an indefinite delay over the issue. Agency officials said the drug was safe and effective, but cited they were unsure how to regulate a restriction based on age.

Religious conservatives and other opponents argue easier access to emergency contraceptive will result in increased promiscuity and sexually transmitted diseases. Supporters, including most doctors and women's rights groups, say it will prevent unwanted pregnancies and abortions.