A recent study suggests that a simplified regime for administering the early abortion pill mifepristone is safe and effective, and could increase access to the drug for poor women and women in developing nations. Lead author Dr. Batya Elul of the Population Council notes that the study was undertaken to find a less expensive regimen than that currently used in nations where mifepristone is available, including France and the United States. For the study, 315 women in rural Vietnam and Tunisia received 200 mg of mifepristone at a clinic, and then chose to take the second required dose, 400 micrograms of misoprostol, either at home or at the clinic. The regular dose calls for 600 mg of mifepristone and three or more visits to the clinic. The study showed a success rate between 91 and 93 percent, with 88 percent of the women choosing to take the second dose at home. The study’s authors argue that this regime should be considered both in developing and industrialized nations, as it was shown to be safe and effective.
Uncategorized
