Recent clinical research is opening new possibilities for early medication abortion, with ulipristal acetate showing encouraging results when combined with misoprostol. Building on these findings, a new placebo-controlled randomized trial will soon launch in Mexico to further investigate this promising regimen. The study is expected to begin enrolling participants this fall and aims to confirm a protocol that ensures safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness.

This follow-up trial comes in response to the positive outcomes of a proof-of-concept study, also conducted in Mexico. That study demonstrated that ulipristal acetate, in combination with misoprostol, may serve as an effective alternative to the commonly used mifepristone-misoprostol regimen.

Strong Early Results

In the proof-of-concept trial, complete abortion was confirmed by ultrasound in 129 of 133 participants (97 %; 95 % CI, 94.1–99.9 %) with pregnancies up to 63 days of gestation. The success rate was comparable to the standard mifepristone-based regimen, with very few participants requiring additional medical care. Importantly, participant satisfaction was also high — 130 of 133 women (97.7 %) rated the treatment as satisfactory or very satisfactory.

Next Steps in Research

The upcoming study, together with previously published research by Gynuity, underscores the importance of continuing to collect comprehensive data on ulipristal acetate for medication abortion across diverse populations and settings. Expanding this evidence base is critical for ensuring that individuals worldwide have access to safe, effective, and affordable reproductive health options.

References

• A Proof-of-Concept Study of Ulipristal Acetate for Early Medication Abortion, Gynuity Health Projects, January 23, 2025.