Plan B vs. Abortion Pill

plan b

used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure; emergency contraception

• most effective when taken ASAP

  • ideally w/i 72hrs but may be used up to 5 days

• doesn’t harm an already existing pregnancy

• available w/o Rx, no age restriction

• active ingredient: 1.5mg of levonorgestrel, synthetic progestin hormone

plan b MOA

• delays or inhibits ovulation

• may interfere w/ fertilization by altering movement of the egg or sperm (making them less likely to meet)

• may alter endometrium, inhibiting implantation

RU-486 (Mifepristone)

• “abortion pill” used to terminate early pregnancy once pregnancy is established

• approved by FDA as part of 2 drug regimen for medical abortion

• can be used up to 70 days, 9-10wks gest

• by Rx

mifepristone MOA

• blocks progesterone, causing breakdown of uterus lining, leading to detachment of pregnancy

• softens cervix & increases uterine sensitivity to prostaglandins, preparing body for expulsion

• typically followed w/i 24-48hrs by misoprostol (Cytotec) PO/vag