Mifeprist

Mifeprist Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Mifeprist is a brand name. Its generic name is Mifepristone.

Mifeprist Introduction

Mifeprist, also known as RU-486, is an anti-hormone medication used to induce medical abortion. It is used in combination with misoprostol, a prostaglandin, to terminate a pregnancy in the first trimester.Mifeprist was developed in 1980 by researchers at the drug company Roussel-Uclaf. It received approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2000, and is now widely available as an effective and safe method of terminating pregnancy.

Uses for Mifeprist

Mifeprist is mainly used to induce medical abortion during the early stages of pregnancy. It is also used in the treatment of certain types of cancer such as Cushing’s syndrome, as well as hyperglycemia, Endometriosis and fibroids. In addition, mifepristone has been investigated for use in contraception, long-term contraception, and heavy menstrual bleeding.

Mechanism of Action

Mifeprist is a type of anti-hormone medication that acts by competitive binding and blockade of progesterone receptors, thus preventing progesterone from exerting its action. This in turn leads to the softening and opening of the cervix, which allows the expulsion of the embryo from the uterus. Mifeprist is used in combination with misoprostol, a prostaglandin which induces contractions and dilation of the uterus, resulting in the expulsion of the embryo.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The effects of mifepristone usually become noticeable within 24 hours, although it may take up to 48 hours for the effects to be fully realized. After taking mifepristone, most women will experience the expulsion of the embryo within four to five hours.

Absorption

Mifeprist is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Following a single oral dose, peak plasma concentrations of mifepristone are reached within two hours. The drug is highly protein bound in plasma.

Route of Elimination

Mifeprist is eliminated primarily by hepatic metabolism. Approximately 60% of the administered dose of mifepristone is excreted in the feces and 40% in the urine.

Dosage

The standard dose of mifepristone is 200 mg taken orally as a single dose. In some cases, higher doses may be necessary to induce abortion, such as 800 mg or more.

Administration

Mifeprist is taken orally, generally in one dose. It can be taken with or without food.

Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with the use of mifepristone include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, and changes in menstrual bleeding. In rarer cases, mifepristone can cause more serious side effects such as fever, infection, septic shock, multi-organ failure, and death.

Toxicity

Mifeprist is generally well-tolerated and is not believed to have a significant toxicity in therapeutic doses. Mifeprist is contraindicated in women with known or suspected ectopic pregnancies, or chronic adrenal failure.

Precautions

It is important to not take mifepristone if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. Additionally, be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have any other medical conditions or allergies, as use of mifepristone may cause serious adverse reactions in certain individuals. Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any other medications, as they may interact with mifepristone.

Interaction

Mifeprist may interact with certain other medications, including anticoagulants, antibiotics, anti-seizure medications, antifungal medications, HIV medications, and certain herbal supplements. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking, as these may interact with mifepristone.

Disease Interaction

Mifeprist is contraindicated in women with known or suspected ectopic pregnancies, or chronic adrenal failure. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of any other medical conditions you may have as use of mifepristone may cause serious adverse reactions in certain individuals.

Drug Interaction

Mifeprist may interact with certain other medications, including anticoagulants, antibiotics, anti-seizure medications, antifungal medications, HIV medications, and certain herbal supplements. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking, as these may interact with mifepristone.

Food Interactions

Mifeprist may interact with certain foods, such as grapefruit juice, dairy products, and high-fat meals. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about any dietary supplements or foods you are taking before using mifepristone.

Pregnancy Use

Mifeprist should not be used during pregnancy. Additionally, women who are breastfeeding should not take mifepristone because it can pass into breast milk and cause serious adverse reactions in the baby.

Lactation Use

Mifeprist should not be used while breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and cause serious adverse reactions in the baby.

Acute Overdose

The effects of an acute overdose of mifepristone are not known. In the event of an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Contraindication

Mifeprist is contraindicated in women with known or suspected ectopic pregnancies, or chronic adrenal failure. It should also not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Use Directions

Mifeprist is taken orally, generally in one dose. It can be taken with or without food. Follow the directions given by your healthcare provider and read all the information on the package insert carefully before using this medication.

Storage Conditions

Mifeprist should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It should be kept at room temperature (15-30°C) and should not be exposed to temperatures above 30°C.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of mifepristone is approximately 1.3 L/kg. This indicates that mifepristone is widely distributed throughout the body tissues.

Half Life

The half-life of mifepristone is approximately 30 hours, which indicates that it takes approximately 30 hours for the concentration of mifepristone in the blood to be reduced by half.

Clearance

The clearance of mifepristone is about 0.07 L/hr/kg which indicates that mifepristone is rapidly eliminated from the body.

Here you find in details version of Mifeprist

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Mifeprist

What is Mifeprist?

Mifeprist is a medication used in medical abortion. It is a antiprogesterone medication, meaning it blocks progesterone from acting in the body, resulting in the death of the unborn baby.

What is the purpose of Mifeprist?

Mifeprist is used to terminate an early pregnancy before it is viable. It is typically used in combination with misoprostol to induce a complete medical abortion.

Who can take Mifeprist?

Mifeprist is approved to be taken by women who have been pregnant for up to 10 weeks. It is not recommended for women who have an ectopic pregnancy, severe anemia, or underlying medical conditions.

What are the side effects of Mifeprist?

Mifeprist can cause a range of side effects, some of which are more common than others. These include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Rarely, some women may experience an allergic reaction or severe bleeding.

Is Mifeprist an effective method of abortion?

Yes, Mifeprist is a highly effective method of abortion when taken according to the prescribed instructions. The success rate for medical abortion with Mifeprist is around 96-98%, making it one of the most successful methods of abortion.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Mifeprist?

If you miss a dose of Mifeprist, call your doctor as soon as possible to discuss what to do. Depending on how far along your pregnancy is, your doctor may recommend restarting the treatment or switching to a surgical abortion.

How long does it take for Mifeprist to start working?

Mifeprist usually starts to work within 2-24 hours of taking the medication, though the exact time can vary. You will likely experience cramping and bleeding during this time, and the pregnancy will be terminated in most cases.

What drugs interact with Mifeprist?

Certain drugs may interact with Mifeprist, so it is important to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking before you start the treatment. Some drugs that can interact with Mifeprist include blood thinners, steroids, and antifungal medications.

When is Mifeprist not recommended?

Mifeprist is typically not recommended for women with an ectopic pregnancy, severe anemia, or underlying medical conditions. Women who are allergic to Mifeprist or any of its ingredients should also not take the medication.

Is Mifeprist available over the counter?

No, Mifeprist is only available by prescription from a doctor or health care provider. It is important to obtain this medication from a licensed and reputable facility to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

Is it safe to take Mifeprist if I am breastfeeding?

It is generally not recommended to take Mifeprist while breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about the risks before taking the medication if you are breastfeeding.

Does Mifeprist have any long-term side effects?

Mifeprist is generally considered safe and does not have any long-term effects. Rarely, some women may experience infection, bleeding, or damage to the uterus in rare cases.

What should I do if I experience a side effect to Mifeprist?

If you experience any side effects to Mifeprist, contact your doctor or health care provider immediately. They will be able to advise you on what to do and if any additional medical attention is necessary.

How do I take Mifeprist?

Mifeprist is taken orally. It is typically taken in a single dose with two more doses of misoprostol to complete the medical abortion. Speak to your doctor for specific instructions on how to take this medication.

Is Mifeprist available in all countries?

Mifeprist is available in many countries, but not all. Check with your doctor to find out if the medication is available in your country.

How long does it take for Mifeprist to be effective?

The effects of Mifeprist usually take 1 to 2 days to take effect. Some abortions may be completed within 24 hours, while in some cases it can take up to 2 weeks.

How long is Mifeprist effective for?

Mifeprist is typically effective for up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. After that time, a surgical abortion may be necessary to terminate the pregnancy.

Can Mifeprist be used after 10 weeks of pregnancy?

While Mifeprist can be used after 10 weeks of pregnancy, it is not recommended. In this case, a surgical abortion is likely the safest and most effective way to terminate the pregnancy.

What should I do if I experience heavy bleeding after taking Mifeprist?

If you experience heavy bleeding after taking Mifeprist, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Heavy bleeding can be a sign of an incomplete abortion or a complication, and you may need additional medical attention.

Can I take ibuprofen with Mifeprist?

Yes, you can take ibuprofen with Mifeprist. However, it is important to talk to your doctor first about any medications you are taking, including ibuprofen.

Can Mifeprist cause birth defects?

No, Mifeprist does not cause birth defects. The medication works by blocking progesterone, which is essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. It terminates the pregnancy, but does not cause any permanent damage.

Is Mifeprist safe for women who have had a cesarean section?

Yes, Mifeprist is safe for women who have had a cesarean section. However, it is important to speak to your doctor first to make sure that Mifeprist is the best option for your individual situation.

Can I become pregnant again after taking Mifeprist?

Yes, it is possible to become pregnant again after taking Mifeprist. Most women are advised to wait at least 1 month before trying to conceive again, however this time frame may vary depending on individual situations.

Are there any long-term repercussions of taking Mifeprist?

No, there are no long-term repercussions of taking Mifeprist. However, it is important to speak to your doctor about the risks of medical abortion before taking this medication.

Can Mifeprist cause an ectopic pregnancy?

No, Mifeprist does not cause an ectopic pregnancy. The only risk of ectopic pregnancy is if the pregnancy has already become implanted outside the uterus, which can be detected through an ultrasound.

Is Mifeprist cheaper than surgical abortion?

Yes, Mifeprist is typically cheaper than a surgical abortion. However, the cost can vary depending on which country you live in and the type of facility you use.

What should I avoid while taking Mifeprist?

It is recommended to avoid drinking alcohol, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and using tampons while taking Mifeprist. Additionally, it is important to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids to help your body heal.

Can I travel while taking Mifeprist?

It is important to speak to your doctor before travelling while taking Mifeprist. Depending on your travel plans, your doctor may recommend avoiding air travel or coming back to the hospital for additional care.

Should I take a pregnancy test before taking Mifeprist?

Yes, it is important to take a pregnancy test before taking Mifeprist. If the test is positive, your doctor will be able to advise you if Mifeprist is the best option for you.

What should I do if I experience fever or chills after taking Mifeprist?

If you experience fever or chills after taking Mifeprist, it is important to contact your doctor or health care provider as soon as possible. These could be signs of infection, which may require additional medical attention.

Can I take Mifeprist if I have an IUD?

Yes, it is usually safe to take Mifeprist if you have an IUD. However, it is important to speak to your doctor first to make sure this is the best option for you.

Can I use Mifeprist if I have taken other abortion medications in the past?

Yes, you can take Mifeprist if you have taken other abortion medications in the past. However, it is important to speak to your doctor first to make sure it is still safe.

Can I take Mifeprist if I am using hormonal birth control?

Yes, you can take Mifeprist if you are using hormonal birth control. However, it is important to talk to your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking before starting the treatment.

What should I do if I still have not miscarried after taking Mifeprist?

If you still have not miscarried after taking Mifeprist, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor may recommend additional medical treatments, such as another dose of medication or a surgical abortion.

Is Mifeprist covered by insurance?

Yes, many insurance companies cover Mifeprist, but it is important to check with your insurance provider to see if your plan covers it. In some cases, the medication may be partially or fully covered.

How quickly does Mifeprist work?

The effects of Mifeprist typically start within 2-24 hours of taking the medication. In most cases, the abortion will be complete within 1 to 2 days.

Can I have intercourse while taking Mifeprist?

It is generally not recommended to have intercourse while taking Mifeprist. You may experience heavy bleeding or contract an infection, so it is important to wait until the abortion is complete before engaging in any sexual activity.

Is Mifeprist available in all states?

No, Mifeprist is not available in all states. Some states have laws limiting or prohibiting the use of this medication, so it is important to check your local laws before starting the treatment.

Can Mifeprist cause nausea or vomiting?

Yes, nausea and vomiting are common side effects of Mifeprist. If the symptoms are severe, speak to your doctor as they may prescribe anti-nausea medication.

Can I take Mifeprist if I am overweight?

Yes, you can take Mifeprist if you are overweight. However, it is important to speak to your doctor to make sure that the medication is safe and appropriate for you.

Can I take Mifeprist more than once?

No, Mifeprist should not be taken more than once. If the medication does not successfully terminate the pregnancy, your doctor may recommend a surgical abortion.