In 2021 they already didn't have to abide by EU rules (and they stopped abiding pretty much instantly about a lot). Look, I never said it's not safe. I also didn't say it's safe. I live in a country where there's no shame in telling your gynecologist that you want on the pill, so this is of no concern to me whatsoever, I just shared my opinion based on the facts I just mentioned.

I won't advocate for using over-the-counter anticonception in my country, because here the system works. In US, it's definitely a good thing because some religious zealots feel like a woman's womb is their own property. The doctor knows you better than a pharmacist and if you can safely get a prescription, it's always better.