Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about Mifegymiso and medical abortion as well as a link to our Mifegymiso pocket guide.
Asking for an Abortion: A Pocket Guide
Having an abortion is a normal and common experience. One in three people who can get pregnant will have one. In Canada, abortions are safe and legal procedures done by healthcare professionals.
FAQ
On 29 July 2015, Health Canada approved the use of the medical abortion drug RU-486 (also known as Mifepristone). In Canada, the Mifepristone (RU-486) and Misoprostol drug regimen is sold under the name Mifegymiso. The medication started to become available to the public in January 2017.
What is medical abortion?
Medical abortion uses medication rather than an internal procedure to end a pregnancy.
Where can I obtain a medical abortion (the abortion pill)?
Visit our directory to find your nearest provider or call Action Canada’s toll-free Access Line at 1-888-642-2725.
What is Mifepristone?
Mifepristone is an anti-hormone used to end a pregnancy. The Mifepristone and Misoprostol regimen is on the World Health Organization’s list of essential drugs. It is considered the “gold standard” for medical abortion.
How does Mifepristone work?
Mifegymiso is the Canadian brand name for the combination of the medications Mifepristone and Misoprostol. Mifepristone is a medication that blocks the effect of progesterone, a hormone that is needed for a pregnancy to continue. Misoprostol is a prostaglandin and causes contractions of the uterus and relaxation of the cervix. This helps push out the contents of the uterus. Mifepristone and Misoprostol work together to end a pregnancy.
In Canada, Mifepristone is packaged in a combination box, 1- Mifepristone 200Mg tablet and 4 – 0.2Mg Misoprostol tablets. First a Mifepristone tablet is taken and then 24 to 48 hours later, Misoprostol tablets are taken. 4 Misoprostol tablets are taken at the same time.
The Mifepristone and Misoprostol regimen is on the World Health Organization’s list of essential drugs. It is considered the “gold standard” for medical abortion.
Is Mifepristone safe?
Mifepristone is already available in 60 countries. Its use was approved in France and in China since 1988 (almost 30 years ago) and has maintained an outstanding safety record throughout the world. In many countries, it is used safely up to 10 weeks of pregnancy and beyond. Just like surgical abortion, trained providers offer the procedure under high quality conditions, which highly diminish the risk of possible complications.
When can I use Mifepristone?
In Canada, Mifegymiso can currently be prescribed up until 9 weeks gestation for on-label use. Physicians can prescribe it off-label up to 10 weeks of gestation as it has been used safely and effectively up to that gestational age and beyond.
How much does it cost?
Without provincial health coverage, the cost of Mifegymiso ranges between $300-$450 per package.
Who covers the cost?
The cost of the medication is covered by all provincial health insurance programs.
Do I need a prescription?
Yes