RU-486 (Mifepristone (Mifeprex) and Misoprostol) Quick Facts

August 8, 2021

Share this article

Gestational Age: Up to 7 weeks Typical Cost: $400-$650

PROCEDURE The FDA approved regimen1 for RU-486 is a three-visit process using two different drugs: 1. Mifepristone is given orally during the first office visit (600 mg). Mifepristone blocks progesterone from sustaining the pregnancy, thereby ending the life of the baby. 2. Misoprostol tablets are given orally (400 mcg) during the second office visit which occurs 36-48 hours later. The patient will then return home where the misoprostol will cause contractions to expel the baby’s remains. This may occur within a few hours or up to two weeks after taking misoprostol. 3. A physical exam is given two weeks later to ensure the abortion is complete and that there are no immediate complications.

WARNINGS The FDA has approved mifepristone for use only up to 49 days (7 weeks) from last menstrual period. Be aware that many providers offer the drug beyond the FDA approved limit, prescribe other doses, fail to provide both drugs, or skip one or more of the three visits. Deviations from the approved regimen increase your risk of unnecessary or harmful complications. The procedure is unsuccessful approximately 8-10% of the time, thus requiring an additional surgical abortion procedure to complete the termination. Medical abortion is not advised for women who have anemia, bleeding disorders, liver or kidney disease, seizure disorder, acute inflammatory bowel disease, or use an intrauterine device (IUD).

Risks and Side Effects - Cramping - Nausea - Vomiting - Diarrhea - Heavy bleeding - Infection - Sepsis and Septic Shock - Death - Fetal Development Weeks 5-9

The following describes some of the developmental steps of the baby during the time frame when a woman is eligible for a medication abortion. - Development of brain and spinal cord - Heart begins to beat - Hands and feet are forming - Every essential organ has begun to form - Bones begin to form, muscles can contract - Abortion Pill Reversal

It is possible to reverse the effects of the abortion pill within 72 hours of taking the first dose.

CALL US IMMEDIATELY at our 24 hour hotline: (225) 229-5826

Recent Posts

July 30, 2026
The abortion pill is actually a two-medication process involving Mifepristone and Misoprostol.
July 7, 2026
If you’re considering the abortion pill, it’s important to understand what your body may experience. While symptoms are expected, others could signal a more serious issue. Knowing the difference between common side effects and potential complications can help you make informed decisions and seek care when needed.
June 15, 2026
Finding out you're pregnant can make your mind race. You might be wondering, Do my parents have to know? What are my options? What am I allowed to do?
May 28, 2026
If pregnancy wasn't a part of your plan, you may be looking for a private and easy way to end it. You may be wondering if you can pick up abortion pills over the counter at your local pharmacy.
May 12, 2026
Seeing a positive pregnancy test can bring a flood of emotions all at once. You may feel overwhelmed, scared, confused, numb, pressured, or simply unsure what to do next.
April 22, 2026
When facing an unexpected pregnancy, uncertainty can feel like your new normal. Questions swirl, decisions feel heavy, and clarity seems out of reach. If you’re considering abortion, understanding what actually happens during the process can bring that clarity back.
April 14, 2026
Finding out you’re pregnant—especially when it’s unexpected—can feel overwhelming. Along with the emotions, questions, and decisions, one big concern often rises to the surface: Who should I tell?
February 15, 2026
An unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming, and when your parents disagree with your choices, the emotional strain can intensify. While your parents’ concerns may come from love or a desire to protect your future, it’s important to remember: this is your body, and this is your decision.
February 1, 2026
It’s one of the most common questions people ask when facing an unexpected pregnancy. But the answer isn’t always simple. Abortion limits depend on how far along the pregnancy is, the type of abortion being considered, and medical risks that increase over time.
January 15, 2026
Finding out you are pregnant can bring up a lot of emotions, especially if it happens early in a relationship. Maybe things are still new. Maybe you care about your partner but are unsure what kind of future you see together. Or maybe you just started dating and did not expect to be having a baby so soon in the relationship.
Show More