Mifepristone is a synthetic steroid with anti-progestagenic and anti-glucocorticoid effects. It is useful in humans as an abortifacient in the first two months of pregnancy, as well as medical treatment for certain endocrine conditions. During early trials, it was known as RU-486 after its designation at the Roussel Uclaf company, which designed the drug. The drug was initially made available in France, but other countries then followed suit, often amid controversy. In the United States it is made by Danco Laboratories under the tradename Mifeprex. (In the United States, at least, the drug is still commonly referred to as "RU-486".)
Chemical Description
Mifepristone is a light yellow powder, highly soluble in
methanol and only poorly soluble in water. Its structural name is 11β-
*-17β-hydroxy-17-(1-propynyl)estra-4,9-dien-3-one. Its
empirical formula is C
29H
35NO
2
Pharmacology
During early
pregnancy, the
endometrium is dependent upon progestagenic support from the
corpus luteum. Mifepristone acts as a competitive inhibitor at the
progesterone receptor and thus removes this basis for support. In addition, it sensitises the
myometrium to the contraction-inducing activity of prostaglandins.
More on
[ Mifepristone ]
Reproductive Health
RU 486 and Medical Abortion
RU 486 and Medical Abortion :: Abortion
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DrugDigest: Mifepristone ( Mifeprex ) - Information on dosage, usage, side effects, interactions, and drug comparisons, including generics when available.
FDA Approves Mifepristone for the Termination of Early Pregnancy - Press release announcing the approval decision.
Meta Description: [ The Food and Drug Administration today approved mifepristone (trade name Mifeprex) for the termination of early pregnancy, defined as 49 days or less, counting from the beginning of the last menstrual period. ]
FDA Mifepristone Information - Official information about the U.S. government's review and approval of mifepristone (RU-486).
Meta Description: [ Mifeprex (mifepristone) Information ]
Mifeprex: The Early Option Pill - Official site of Danco Laboratories. Prescription information, patient guide, news, and history.
Mifepristone - Fact sheets in English and Spanish.
Meta Description: [ Planned Parenthood ]
Mifepristone Overview - Includes history and references to clinical studies.
Meta Description: [ NAF's professional and continuing medical education programs and resources provide health care professionals with evidence- and outcomes-based information about the provision of abortion services ]
The Medical Uses of Mifepristone - Feminist Majority Foundation fact sheet about several serious medical conditions which mifepristone (formerly known as RU-486) may be effective in treating.
Meta Description: [ The Feminist Majority Foundation works for social and political and economic equality for women by using research and education to improve women's lives. The Feminist Majority Foundation Online features daily feminist news with 'take action' ideas, domestic violence and sexual assault hotlines, a... ]