Mifepristone has been found by the FDA to be a safe and effective method of early abortion.
Mifepristone works by blocking the action of the natural hormone, progesterone.
Once approved for use in the U.S., a woman will be able to choose a medical abortion any time after conception and before 49 days. Sufficient counseling will be provided to make sure that she fully understands and wants a medical abortion. Side effects are similar to those of a natural miscarriage. Studies have shown mifepristone to be safe and effective. Regulatory agencies have approved the drug for marketing in France, Great Britain, China, Sweden, Israel, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, and Spain.