Ulipristral is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or suspected birth control failure.  

 

What is Ulipristral?

Ulipristral is a progesterone agonist/antagonist. Its exact mechanism of action has not yet been identified. It may prevent pregnancy by blocking or delaying ovulation or altering the lining of the uterus to prevent implantation if fertilization occurs.  

 

How should Ulipristral be taken?

Ulipristral is administered orally in the form of tablets. It should be taken within 5 hours from an at-risk intercourse.

 

Side effects associated with Ulipristral

Ulipristral may reduce the effectiveness of birth control methods.

 

Among the other possible side effects of ulipristral include the following:

 

  • Changes in flow or duration of the menstrual cycle
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Stomach ache
  • Fatigue

 

It is important to contact a doctor immediately if these symptoms appear 3-5 weeks after taking Ulipristral:

 

  • Severe pain in the lower abdomen
  • Rash
  • Urticaria
  • Itch
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Tightness in the chest
  • Swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
  • Absence of menstruation
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Spotting during menstruation

 

Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Ulipristral

Ulipristral should not be taken in the event of pregnancy (before taking the medication, it is advised to take a pregnancy test) or menopause. It is also prohibited if you have already taking barbiturates, bosentan, carbamazepine, felbamate, griseofulvin, phenytoin, rifampin, St. John's wort or other drugs that may reduce its effectiveness.

 

The drug can impair the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. This side effect can be exacerbated by alcohol and certain medications.

 

Before starting treatment with Ulipristral, it is important to tell your doctor if:

 

  • You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or to other drugs or food
  • You have taken any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: azole antifungal, barbiturates, bosentan, carbamazepine, dexamethasone, efavirenz, felbamate, griseofulvin, hydantoins, modanafil, nevirapine, oxcarbazepine, primidone, rifamycins, St. John's wort, topiramate, dabigatran, digoxin or birth control pills
  • You are experiencing an ectopic pregnancy
  • You have not had your first menstrual period
  • You are overweight
  • You are pregnant or breast-feeding