Clinical applications of mifepristone.
Mifepristone is a progesterone antagonist that has been studied for a number of clinical applications. It is a well-known abortifacient that is effective for both first- and second-trimester medical abortion when used with a prostaglandin analog. It is also an effective cervical priming agent that can be used to soften the cervix before surgical evacuation. Its clinical efficacy as an emergency contraception has been proven. Other applications including treatment for fibroids, endometriosis and various cancers have been explored. However, its association with abortion limits the applications of mifepristone in many of these areas.
Tang
Oi Shan
OS
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China. ostang@graduate.hku.hk
Ho
Pak Chung
PC
D000021:Abortifacient Agents, Steroidal / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000028:Abortion, Induced / Q000379:methods*; D000022:Abortion, Spontaneous / Q000188:drug therapy; D003270:Contraceptive Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D005831:Genital Diseases, Female / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D015735:Mifepristone / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011247:Pregnancy
D000021:Abortifacient Agents, Steroidal; D003270:Contraceptive Agents; D015735:Mifepristone