Ulipristal acetate as an emergency contraceptive agent.

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Martinez AM, Thomas MA

Ulipristal acetate as an emergency contraceptive agent.

Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2012 Sep;13(13):1937-42. doi: 10.1517/14656566.2012.705832. Epub 2012 Jul 7.

PubMed ID
22770536 [ View in PubMed
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Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Emergency contraceptive agents play a crucial role in preventing unplanned pregnancy. These agents and devices have been studied since the 1960s and have had varied results in terms of side effects and efficacy. A new oral tablet for emergency contraception (EC), ulipristal acetate (UPA) , is a selective progesterone receptor modulator and can be used up to 120 h following unprotected intercourse, without an increase in adverse effects or a decrease in efficacy. AREAS COVERED: This article reviews studies that evaluate the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, and safety profile of UPA as an emergency contraceptive agent. EXPERT OPINION: UPA, a selective progesterone receptor modulator, is administered as a single 30 mg dose for EC. This agent provides a comparable, if not better, efficacy and side effect profile than seen with levonorgestrel or mifepristone. Because it has both agonistic and antagonistic effects on the progesterone receptor, ongoing clinical trials are documenting UPA's use for patients with endometriosis and as an extended use contraceptive.

DrugBank Data that Cites this Article

Drugs
Drug Enzymes
DrugEnzymeKindOrganismPharmacological ActionActions
UlipristalCytochrome P450 1A2ProteinHumans
No
Substrate
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