Why is this medication prescribed? Ulipristal is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse (sex without any method of birth control or with a birth control method that failed or was not used properly [e.g., a condom that slipped or broke or birth control pills that were not taken as scheduled]).Ulipristal should not be used to prevent pregnancy on a regular basis.This medication is to be used as an emergency contraceptive or backup in case regular birth control fails or is used incorrectly.Ulipristal is in a cla*s of medications called progestins.It works by preventing or delaying the release of an egg from the ovary.It also may work by changing the lining of the uterus (womb) to prevent development of a pregnancy.Ulipristal may prevent pregnancy, but it will not prevent the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV, the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS]) and other sexually transmitted diseases.
How should this medication be used?
Ulipristal comes as a tablet to take by mouth.It is usually taken with or without food as soon as possible after unprotected sexual intercourse.Ulipristal may be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sexual intercourse, but the sooner it is taken, the more likely that it will prevent pregnancy.Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.Take ulipristal exactly as directed.
Ulipristal may be used at any time during the menstrual cycle.However, it should not be used more than once during the same menstrual cycle.
If you vomit less than 3 hours after you take ulipristal, call your doctor.You may need to take another dose of this medication.
Because you can become pregnant soon after treatment with ulipristal, you should continue using your regular method of birth control or begin using regular birth control immediately.If you use hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills, implants, patches, rings, or injections), you should also use a barrier method (condom or diaphragm with spermicide) every time you have sex during the same menstrual cycle as you took ulipristal.
Are there other uses for this medicine?
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Other names
EllaВ
