In a landmark decision, the US Supreme Court has rejected a lawsuit challenging the regulation of the abortion pill, Mifepristone. This means that the pill can continue to be mailed to patients without an in-person visit with a doctor. The FDA-approved drug has been shown to be safe and effective, despite claims from anti-abortion advocates that it is not.
The lawsuit, brought by anti-abortion doctors and medical organizations, alleged that the FDA violated the law in how it regulated Mifepristone. Had a 5th Circuit ruling been upheld, it could have significantly impacted abortion access in states where it is legal. However, the Supreme Court ruled on Thursday that the challengers did not have standing to sue, leaving the door open for future challenges.
Mifepristone, also known as Mifeprex and Korlym, is used in combination with misoprostol for medication abortions. This method, available in more than 60 countries, has become increasingly common in the US over the past two decades. Studies have shown that the combination is effective in terminating pregnancies 99.6% of the time.
Despite its effectiveness, Mifepristone may cause side effects such as dizziness, vomiting, and headache. However, major adverse events are “exceedingly rare,” occurring in less than 0.3% of patients. The FDA reports that the risk of death associated with Mifepristone is 0.0005%, making it as safe as common over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen.
While Mifepristone can continue to be administered via telehealth, the use of misoprostol on its own for abortions is also an option. Studies have shown that misoprostol alone is effective and safe, with about 78% of cases resulting in a complete abortion. However, the two-drug regimen is considered more effective in terminating pregnancies.
Overall, the Supreme Court’s decision upholds access to Mifepristone and ensures that individuals seeking medication abortions can continue to do so with the support of telehealth services.
