The Difference Between Mifepristone and Misoprostol Pills

Invented in 1982, the abortion pill is not a contraceptive technique but a drug intended to induce an abortion in the event of an active pregnancy.

It is called the “pill” but the abortion pill has nothing to do with the contraceptive “pill”. Taking the abortion pill in USA is regulated by law and complies with a regulated procedure.

The success rate for a medical abortion is around 95%. There is therefore a small risk of failure of approximately 5%. In this case, the protocol must be completed by a vacuum aspiration abortion.

Two types of pills or tablets can be used to induce an abortion: mifepristone and misoprostol. They can be used together, or misoprostol can be used alone, to empty the uterus safely and effectively by triggering a process similar to miscarriage.

When misoprostol is used on its own, it is a little less effective and still very safe. This method is very common because there are many places where mifepristone is not available.

In this article, we will explain the difference between mifepristone and misoprostol pills, how each medication works, and why they are commonly combined for medication abortion.

The Mifepristone Pill (Mifeprex)

Mifepristone blocks the action of progesterone (a hormone needed to keep pregnancy in the womb) and softens the cervix to help push the pregnancy out. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and causes the pregnancy to be expelled.

This process is similar to the one that occurs when a person has a spontaneous miscarriage.

When both drugs are available, mifepristone is taken first, followed by misoprostol 1 to 2 days later. Mifepristone is always swallowed. Misoprostol is placed in the mouth to dissolve, either between the cheek and gum tissue or under the tongue.

Note: You do not need to take misoprostol vaginally, and it is never necessary for someone to insert it for you.

Mifepristone (Mifeprex) is only available in a limited number of countries around the world. Mifepristone is often packaged with misoprostol as a combination product only for abortion.

The Misoprostol Pill (Cytotec)

Misoprostol is more widely available around the world, it is cheaper than mifepristone, and it is easier to buy at pharmacies and drug vendors.

In addition to being used to induce abortion, misoprostol is also used to treat ulcers and to prevent or stop heavy bleeding after childbirth.

Misoprostol is the generic name for the drug, but it is sold worldwide under many different brand names, such as Cytotec, Misoclear, Misotac, Kontrac, and Isovent.

The price of misoprostol varies around the world. But since misoprostol is a widely available drug, it is generally inexpensive. Manufacturers sell it to pharmacies at a very low price, less than $ 0.05 (5 cents) per pill. A recent study found that the highest selling price was US $ 2 per pill.

Misoprostol is generally a very affordable option for most people who want to have an abortion. Of course, some pharmacists or drug dealers may seek to take advantage of people who want to get misoprostol and try to overcharge them for the pills.

You can ask people you trust if they know how much the tablets should cost where you live, or you can search the internet for local pricing information. But remember, misoprostol doesn’t have to be expensive!

Prepackaged combi-packs of mifepristone and misoprostol are only available in a limited number of countries (less than 30 worldwide), and they are less likely to be sold without a prescription.

If you live in a low or middle income country where combi-packs are available, it is very likely that the prices are controlled and a combi-pack should cost less than US $ 20.

Mifepristone and Misoprostol Pills are Safe

Medication abortion is a safe and highly effective method of pregnancy termination. Millions of women around the world have safely ended pregnancies using Mifepristone and Misoprostol pills, which have been used in abortion care for decades.

When used according to appropriate medical guidance, these medications have a strong safety record and are widely used in reproductive healthcare.

Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone needed to maintain pregnancy, while Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue.

The exact treatment process and level of medical supervision can vary depending on how far the pregnancy has progressed and the patient’s individual health needs.

If you are considering an abortion using Mifepristone and Misoprostol pills, speaking with a qualified healthcare provider can help you understand your options, what to expect, and when follow-up care may be necessary.

Accurate information and access to professional medical support can help make the process safer and less stressful.

Contact us if you need help.

Dr James S Pendergraft | Orlando Women’s Center | Abortion Pill Clinic | Articles On Abortion