Mifeston

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

Mifeston Introduction

Mifeston, 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.Mifeston 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 Mifeston

Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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. Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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

Mifeston is generally well-tolerated and is not believed to have a significant toxicity in therapeutic doses. Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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

Mifeston 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 Mifeston

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Mifeston

What is Mifeston?

Mifeston 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 Mifeston?

Mifeston 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 Mifeston?

Mifeston 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 Mifeston?

Mifeston 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 Mifeston an effective method of abortion?

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

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

If you miss a dose of Mifeston, 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 Mifeston to start working?

Mifeston 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 Mifeston?

Certain drugs may interact with Mifeston, 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 Mifeston include blood thinners, steroids, and antifungal medications.

When is Mifeston not recommended?

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

Is Mifeston available over the counter?

No, Mifeston 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 Mifeston if I am breastfeeding?

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

Does Mifeston have any long-term side effects?

Mifeston 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 Mifeston?

If you experience any side effects to Mifeston, 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 Mifeston?

Mifeston 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 Mifeston available in all countries?

Mifeston 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 Mifeston to be effective?

The effects of Mifeston 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 Mifeston effective for?

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

Can Mifeston be used after 10 weeks of pregnancy?

While Mifeston 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 Mifeston?

If you experience heavy bleeding after taking Mifeston, 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 Mifeston?

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

Can Mifeston cause birth defects?

No, Mifeston 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 Mifeston safe for women who have had a cesarean section?

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

Can I become pregnant again after taking Mifeston?

Yes, it is possible to become pregnant again after taking Mifeston. 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 Mifeston?

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

Can Mifeston cause an ectopic pregnancy?

No, Mifeston 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 Mifeston cheaper than surgical abortion?

Yes, Mifeston 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 Mifeston?

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

Can I travel while taking Mifeston?

It is important to speak to your doctor before travelling while taking Mifeston. 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 Mifeston?

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

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

If you experience fever or chills after taking Mifeston, 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 Mifeston if I have an IUD?

Yes, it is usually safe to take Mifeston 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 Mifeston if I have taken other abortion medications in the past?

Yes, you can take Mifeston 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 Mifeston if I am using hormonal birth control?

Yes, you can take Mifeston 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 Mifeston?

If you still have not miscarried after taking Mifeston, 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 Mifeston covered by insurance?

Yes, many insurance companies cover Mifeston, 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 Mifeston work?

The effects of Mifeston 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 Mifeston?

It is generally not recommended to have intercourse while taking Mifeston. 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 Mifeston available in all states?

No, Mifeston 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 Mifeston cause nausea or vomiting?

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

Can I take Mifeston if I am overweight?

Yes, you can take Mifeston 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 Mifeston more than once?

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