Ulipristal Acetate: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects | MedexInfo

Ulipristal Acetate

Rx

Generic NameUlipristal Acetate

Therapeutic ClassSelective Progesterone Receptor Modulator (SPRM)

Max / 24h30 mg (emergency contraception)

Common Dose30 mg single dose for emergency contraception; 5 mg daily up to 3 months for uterine fibroids

PregnancyContraindicated for emergency contraception; use only if benefit outweighs risk for fibroids

Indications ▼

Emergency contraception within 120 hours after unprotected intercourse

Management of symptomatic uterine fibroids in premenopausal women

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Acts as a selective progesterone receptor modulator; inhibits or delays ovulation for emergency contraception and reduces fibroid size by modulating progesterone-dependent pathways.

Pharmacokinetics: Rapid oral absorption; peak plasma concentration ~1–3 hours; metabolized by CYP3A4 in liver; half-life ~32 hours; excreted in feces and urine.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Condition	Recommended Dose	Frequency
Emergency contraception	30 mg	Single oral dose within 120 hours of unprotected intercourse
Uterine fibroids	5 mg	Once daily for up to 3 months

Note: Swallow tablets whole with water; for emergency contraception, the earlier the dose, the higher the efficacy.

Side Effects ▼

Headache, nausea, abdominal pain

Fatigue, dizziness

Menstrual cycle changes (delayed or irregular bleeding)

Rare: Liver enzyme elevation, allergic reactions

Contraindications ▼

Pregnancy (for emergency contraception)

Hypersensitivity to Ulipristal Acetate

Liver impairment for long-term fibroid treatment

Drug Interaction ▼

CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin): may reduce efficacy

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): may increase plasma levels

Other hormonal contraceptives: may affect bleeding patterns

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Contraindicated during pregnancy for emergency contraception

Use with caution in breastfeeding; excretion in milk unknown

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Therapeutic Role: Prevents pregnancy after unprotected intercourse; reduces uterine fibroid size and symptoms.

Clinical Effectiveness: Highly effective within 120 hours for emergency contraception; improves heavy menstrual bleeding in fibroids.

Safety Profile: Generally well tolerated; monitor liver function during long-term therapy.

Current Research: Studies evaluating repeated use for contraception and long-term effects on fibroids.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Take exactly as prescribed; do not exceed single dose for emergency contraception

Report any severe abdominal pain, jaundice, or allergic reactions

Expect possible changes in menstrual cycle

Do not use as regular contraceptive; consider ongoing contraception after emergency use

For fibroids, adherence to full course is important for efficacy

Storage & Handling ▼

Store at 20–25°C, protect from moisture and light

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh (Local Brands):

5X® EM‑Pill® Ulicon® Utal® Peuli® Uliroid® Uliprist® Fibropress® Preroid® Pristil® Yulipris®

Global / International Brands:

Ella Esmya

Medical Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and must not replace professional medical advice.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulators (SPRM) • Conditions: Emergency Contraception • Conditions: Uterine Fibroids