The Basics
What is Ulipristal?
Used to treat glaucoma.
Brand names for Ulipristal
Ella
How Ulipristal is classified
Contraceptive Agents, Contraceptives – Postcoital, Contraceptives
Ulipristal During Pregnancy
Ulipristal pregnancy category
Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Ulipristal while pregnant
N/A
Taking Ulipristal While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Ulipristal?
Ulipristal is a selective progesterone receptor modulator used in a single dose as an emergency postcoital contraceptive. No information is available on the clinical use of ulipristal during breastfeeding. The manufacturer recommends avoiding use of ulipristal acetate during breastfeeding; others recommend withholding breastfeeding for 24 hours after use, based on the low levels in breastmilk.[1][2]
Maternal / infant drug levels
Ulipristal is a selective progesterone receptor modulator used in a single dose as an emergency postcoital contraceptive. No information is available on the clinical use of ulipristal during breastfeeding. The manufacturer recommends avoiding use of ulipristal acetate during breastfeeding; others recommend withholding breastfeeding for 24 hours after use, based on the low levels in breastmilk.[1][2]
Possible effects of Ulipristal on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Ulipristal
Intrauterine Copper Contraceptive, Oral Levonorgestrel.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Sridhar A, Salcedo J. Optimizing maternal and neonatal outcomes with postpartum contraception: Impact on breastfeeding and birth spacing. Matern Health Neonatol Perinatol. 2017;3:1. PMID: 28101373
2. Afaxys Inc. Ella Package Insert. 2014.
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
