ellaOne (Ulipristal Acetate)

What is ellaOne?

Ulipristal Acetate is commonly called ellaOne. It is currently only approved for use in Europe and the USA. It is categorized as SPRM – Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulator.

What is ellaOne Used for?

This medication is a type of emergency contraception available with a prescription. It must be taken within 5 days of unprotected sexual activity to help reduce the risk of an unwanted pregnancy. It may be offered to women who have been the victims of sexual assault and rape as a precaution.

This medication can help to reduce pregnancy but it isn’t 100%. A pregnancy test in a few weeks is highly recommended to rule it out. The use of this medication won’t prevent STDs. Women are discouraged from using this as a form of regular birth control and it should be used only for extreme incidents.

Sometimes ellaOne is also used for the treatment of Uterine Fibroids. It may be used prior to surgery to help with reducing pain. This treatment may be given for up to 13 weeks to help with reducing the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery.

Dosage and How to Take

When ellaOne is taken for emergency contraception, the dose is 30 mg. When it is taken for the treatment of Uterine Fibroids the daily dose is 5 mg or 10 mg. It depends on the weight of the female and the severity of the health condition. Never take more of it than your doctor prescribes.

When it is to be taken for Uterine Fibroids the medication needs to be taken daily. Skipping doses can increase the risk of severe bleeding or other complications during surgery. Try to take this medication at the same time each day with food.

Possible Side Effects

When a single dose most women don’t experience any side effects from ellaOne. When this medication is taken ongoing for 12 weeks nausea and headaches can occur. Taking this medication with food can help to reduce the nausea. The headaches are typically very dull and will go away after a few weeks.

Precautions and Warnings

This medication can be very dangerous for a fetus or for an infant. Before ellaOne is given, medical professionals must perform a pregnancy test. This medication isn’t recommended for any female who is breastfeeding.

This medication hasn’t been tested on females under the age of 18 in any clinical trials. If a female under that age is going to be given ellaOne parental consent must be given. If you experience any changes in breathing, heart rate, or notice swelling with the use of this medication you need to tell your doctor immediately.