Mifepak is a powerful drug used in medical abortions and has been used since the early 2000s. It is a combination drug which contains Mifepristone and Misoprostol as its active ingredients. It has been successful in helping with the termination of pregnancies as well as treating some other medical conditions.
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Just so you know, Mifepak is not formulated into a fixed dose combination. It is only packaged together as they are often used together for the termination of pregnancy. Read on to know more details about the dosage.
Mifepristone (also called RU-486), which is one of the active ingredient in the medication is a synthetic steroid with an anti-progestational action that works by binding to the progesterone receptor and blocking the effects of progesterone, a hormone necessary for maintaining pregnancy. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus breaks down and sheds, causing bleeding and ultimately leading to termination of pregnancy (abortion).
Misoprostol, which is a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue is used for different clinical application including medical abortion, induction of labor, control of bleeding after a miscarriage or abortion and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage. It is also commonly used to treat gastric ulcers and prevent it from developing in people who are taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. For termination of pregnancy, it works by expanding the uterus which further leads to the expulsion of the fetus.
Mifepak is a prescription medication and must be obtained from a medical provider. It is not available over-the-counter.
However, like with all drugs, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects, interactions, and precautions when taking this medication.
In this blog post will provide an overview of this medication, its uses, its potential side effects, interactions with other medications, and precautions to take when taking this medication.
Whether you’re considering taking this medication yourself or just want to be informed, this article has all the information you need to make an informed decision about your treatment.
Read on to learn more about Mifepak!
Mifepak: Uses
Mifepak is a medication used to end a pregnancy (abortion). It contains two active ingredient, Mifepristone and Misoprostol. Mifepristone works by blocking the hormone, progesterone, which is needed for a pregnancy to continue while Misoprostol causes contractions of the uterus and leads to the expulsion of the fetus.
Note: Mifepak is most effective when used within 49 days of the start of the last menstrual period.
Mifepak: Side Effects
Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. These side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.
The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
Common side effects of mifepristone include;
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Headaches.
- Dizziness.
- Fatigue.
- Gastrointestinal cramps.
These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days.
Serious side effects are rare but can include;
- Heavy vaginal bleeding.
- Uterine rupture
- Uterine hyperstimulation
- Infection, or an incomplete abortion which may require additional medical treatment.
- Fetal distress
- Allergic reactions such as rash, urticaria and facial oedema.
Mifepak is a safe and effective way to end an early pregnancy. However, like all medications, there are some risks involved. Be sure to talk to your doctor about all of your options before deciding if Mifepak is right
Although, This isn’t a complete list of possible side effects associated with taking Mifepak. If you experience any of these side effects or other side effects not mentioned above while taking Mifepak, be sure to contact your doctor or healthcare provider right away.
Mifepak: Precautions
Mifepak can interact with other medications or supplements that you are taking, so it is important to tell your medical provider about all medications you are taking (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) prior to taking Mifepak.
Avoid taking alcohol while using Mifepak as it can increase the risk of potential side effects
Mifepak should not be used by people who have an allergic reactions to misoprostol, mifepristone or any of the other ingredients in the medication. Talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider for more details before using this medication.
Do not use in a patient with history of caesarean section (CS) or major uterine surgery, grand multiparas (risk of rupture).
Mifepak should not be used in women who are pregnant with more than one fetus ( twins or triplets)
Be sure to let your doctor or healthcare provider know before using this medication if you have history of any medical conditions especially heart disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure.
Mifepak: Interactions
Mifepak may interact with other medications (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects, so it is important to tell doctor all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements.
Some of the medication that may interact with Mifepak includes;
- Medications that contains progesterone or steroids.
- Medications used to treat seizure disorders or depression.
- Medications that contains corticosteroids or anticoagulants.
This blog section doesn’t contain all the possible list of drugs that may interact with Mifepak but be sure to inform your doctor about all the medication you’re taking before using Mifepak. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Mifepak: Storage
When it comes to storage, Mifepak should be stored at a temperature between 15-30 degrees Celsius. It should also be stored in a dry place, away from light and moisture. As with any medication, it is important to keep Mifepak out of reach of children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless told to do so. Properly throw away this product when it is expired or no longer needed.
Mifepak: Dosage
For termination of pregnancy, The usual dosage of Mifepristone is 200 mg (one tablets) taken by mouth as a single dose with a glass of water. This is followed by 800 mcg of Misoprostol taken either buccally (between the cheek and gum) or vaginally as a single dose no sooner than 24 – 48 hours later.
The medications may not work as well if you take misoprostol sooner than 24 hours after taking mifepristone or later than 48 hours after taking mifepristone. Paracetamol or Ibuprofen may be taken to reduce pain. Applying a heat pack or hot water bottle below the stomach may help to relieve the pain.
A follow-up visit with a medical provider is generally scheduled for 1 – 2 weeks after taking the medication to ensure that the pregnancy has been terminated and to address any side effects or complications.
Who Should Not Take This Medication?
If you are allergic to mifepristone or any other part of this medication, do not take it.
If you have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place, do not take this medication. You will need to have the IUD removed before taking mifepristone.
Do not take this medication if you are pregnant. It is used to end a pregnancy, and can harm an unborn baby.
Do not take this medication if you are breast-feeding.
Do not take this medication if pregnancy is more than 9 weeks.
Do not take this medication if you have uncontrolled severe asthma.
If you have ectopic pregnancy, do not take this medication rather use other specific means of termination.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Mifepak is an incredibly useful medication that can help treat a wide range of medical conditions. It is important to remember, however, that it should be used with caution and under the advice of your physician. Be sure to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your healthcare professional before taking this medication.
Additionally, make sure to follow the dosage instructions and any other precautions as listed in order to prevent potential side effects when taking Mifepak.
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