Mifepristone: The Medication for Medical Abortion and Cushing’s Syndrome
What is Mifepristone?
Mifepristone is a progesterone antagonist used primarily for medical abortion in early pregnancy, and in some cases for treating Cushing’s syndrome, a condition caused by excess cortisol. It works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for maintaining pregnancy.
How Mifepristone Works
Mifepristone binds to the progesterone receptor, blocking the action of progesterone and causing the endometrial liningto break down. This leads to pregnancy termination when used in combination with other medications like misoprostol.
When to Use Mifepristone
● Medical Abortion: It is used in the first 10 weeks of pregnancy to terminate a pregnancy in combination with misoprostol.
● Cushing’s Syndrome: Used in certain cases of Cushing’s syndrome to lower cortisol levels and manage symptoms.
Dosage
● Adult Dose for Medical Abortion: Typically, a single dose of 200 mg taken orally, followed by misoprostol 24-48 hours later under supervision.
● Adult Dose for Cushing’s Syndrome: Starting dose of 300 mg daily, It is titrated with increments of 300 mg every of 2-4 weeks depending on tolerability and symptom control. Maximum dose is 1200 mg/day.
Side Effects
● Common Effects: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and uterine cramping.
● Serious Adverse Effects: Heavy bleeding, infection, and adrenal insufficiency.
Common Indian brands: Unwanted, Contrapill, Mifegest.