RU486, also known as Mifeprex, is a medication used to induce a miscarriage in pregnancies that are less than 10 weeks along. It is commonly referred to as the abortion pill. Here’s what you need to know:
Recent Legal Challenges:
- In April 2023, a federal judge in Texas issued a ruling to suspend Mifeprex’s FDA approval.
- Shortly after, the Supreme Court ruled to allow Mifeprex to remain available and returned the case to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
- In August 2023, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled to maintain Mifeprex’s approval, but with restrictions on when it can be taken and where it can be made available.
- The Supreme Court is expected to hear the case again, and until then, Mifeprex remains available without the recent court-ordered restrictions.
How Mifeprex Works:
- Mifeprex blocks the hormone progesterone, which is needed for the pregnancy to progress.
- It is used in combination with another medication called Cytotec (misoprostol).
- Cytotec, taken 24 to 48 hours later, causes uterine contractions (cramps).
