A new study published in the journal NEJM Evidence suggests a potential alternative to the abortion pill mifepristone, which has faced opposition from abortion opponents. The study involved a drug called ulipristal acetate, the active ingredient in the contraceptive Ella. The study found that using a higher dose of ulipristal acetate followed by another drug resulted in a 97 percent completion rate for pregnancy termination, similar to using mifepristone.
However, the use of ulipristal acetate for abortion has political implications, as it blurs the line between emergency contraception and abortion. Some abortion opponents have long argued that morning-after pills can cause abortions, a claim disputed by reproductive health experts. The study’s findings could stoke attempts to regulate emergency contraception and create confusion surrounding reproductive health issues.
Despite concerns from both sides of the abortion debate, experts welcomed the search for alternatives to mifepristone, which has been the target of efforts to restrict it across the country. The study’s authors noted that more research is needed before ulipristal acetate could be used for abortion, but some experts believe the study’s findings are promising and could help protect reproductive rights. Efficacy studies show that ulipristal acetate does not cause abortions but rather blocks ovulation. Abortion opponents argue that the drug functions similarly to mifepristone and could be used as a substitute for it.
While the study’s findings are promising, more research is necessary before ulipristal acetate could be used as an alternative to mifepristone. The study has generated political and ethical debates among experts and advocates on both sides of the abortion debate.