Controversy Surrounding Mifepristone and Access to Medical Abortion Pills

Mifepristone, a drug used in medication abortions, is at the center of a lawsuit in Texas that could block access to the drug. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which helps maintain the uterus during pregnancy. When taken with misoprostol, it is 99.6% effective in ending a pregnancy. Mifepristone has been shown to be safe and effective for over 23 years and is approved by the FDA. If banned, misoprostol could still be used for medication abortions, but it is less effective when used alone.