Abortifacients

Question 1

Mifepristone (RU-486)

Answer 1

Abortifacients
• A progesterone receptor antagonist
• Usually combined w/ misoprostol which stimulates uterine contraction
MOA
- Blockade of progesterone action by mifepristone results in decay and death of the decidua aka the pregnant endometrium. - Lack of nourishment from the decidua causes the blastocyst to die and detach from the uterus.
ADE
- excessive vaginal bleeding that can occur from subsequent abortion

Question 2

Misoprostol aka cytotec

Answer 2

Abortifacients
• Analog of PGE1
MOA
- Stimulates uterine contraction
Therapeutic
o Abortifacient
o “Ripen” cervix prior to labor (softening the cervix)
o Induce labor
o Treat postpartum hemorrhage

Question 3

Dinoprostone

Answer 3

Abortifacients
- analog of PGE2 (Prostin E2)
Therapeutic
• Indicated for evacuation of the uterine contents in the management of missed abortion or intrauterine fetal death.

Question 4

Carboprost aka Hemabate

Answer 4

Abortifacients
• analog of prostaglandin F2α
Therapeutic
o Abortifacient 
o Treatment of postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony