mifepristone

Definition

Mifepristone is a pill that can be taken as an alternative to a surgical abortion.

Description

Mifepristone, sold commercially under the name Mifeprex, also is known as RU-486, the abortion pill, the early option pill or medical abortion. While it has been used for many years in Europe, mifepristone has only been available for use in the United States since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved it in 2000 for use in abortion.

This drug causes pregnancy to end by blocking the female hormone progesterone. The lack of progesterone makes the uterus shed its lining, which causes bleeding similar to a menstrual period. Three days after taking mifepristone, women are given a second drug, misprostol, to cause uterine contractions that expel the contents of the uterus. Most women are able to remain in their own home while they pass the fetus, and many prefer to have this privacy.

— Melissa Knopper

[(A)MI(NO) + alteration of PHE(NYL) + PR(OPYL) + alteration of EST(RADIOL) + -ONE.]

Brand names: Mifeprex™

Chemical formula:

Español:
• Mifepristona, Tableta oral

Mifepristone Oral tablet

What is this medicine?

MIFEPRISTONE (mi FE pri stone) is a hormone-like drug. It is used in combination with other medicines to end an early pregnancy (usually during the first 7 weeks). This medicine is only available in a doctor's office, health clinic, or hospital.
 
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•adrenal gland problems
•bleeding problems
•cannot easily get emergency medical help in the 2 weeks after you take this medicine
•cannot return for follow up appointments after you take this medicine
•have intrauterine device (IUD)
•it has been more than 49 days (7 weeks) since your last menstrual period began
•other medical problem
•porphyria
•take medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like enoxaparin, warfarin
•take steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone
•tubal or ectopic pregnancy
•an unusual or allergic reaction to mifepristone, misoprostol, prostaglandins, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Before you take this medicine, read the information your doctor or health care provider gives you. Talk to your doctor about any questions you have. Take your medicine exactly as directed. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. This medicine is not approved for use in children.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
•cerivastatin
•cisapride
•dofetilide
•medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like enoxaparin, warfarin
•pimozide
•ranolazine
•steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
•erythromycin
•grapefruit juice
•medicines for fungal infections like ketoconazole, itraconazole
•medicines for seizures like carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital
•medicines used in surgery for anesthesia
•rifampin
•St. John's wort or other herbal products

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

For your safety, you must visit your doctor as directed after taking this medicine. Report any unusual effects to your doctor. This medicine can cause birth defects. You will need surgery if this medicine fails to cause a full abortion.

After you take this medicine, some vaginal bleeding is normal. Heavy bleeding may be a sign that something is wrong. If you soak through 2 thick full-size sanitary pads each hour for 2 hours, get medical help right away. Tell the health care provider that you have taken this medicine.

Call your doctor if you have a fever, stomach pain or tenderness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or feel weak. This may be a sign that something is wrong. You may have a serious infection or complication and need medical help.

Keep the MedGuide for this medicine. If you need emergency medical care, show your healthcare provider the MedGuide.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
•breathing problems
•fast, irregular heartbeat
•feeling faint, lightheaded
•fever
•stomach pain
•unusually weak or tired
•vaginal discharge with bad smell

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•back pain
•diarrhea
•headache
•loss of appetite
•nausea, vomiting
•stomach cramps
•vaginal bleeding

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

Last updated: 7/1/2002

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

A compound with antiprogesterone and antiglucocorticoid activity. Used as an abortifacient and in the management of hyperadrenocorticism.