Access to Mifepristone Unchanged for Now, but Judge Leaves Door Open for Future Restrictions

NEW ORLEANS -Today, a Louisiana district court paused a case seeking to restrict access to mifepristone, commonly used for abortion and miscarriage care. The case will remain paused while the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) conducts a politically-motivated and unnecessary "review" of mifepristone's safety.

Right now, mifepristone's availability remains unchanged. However, the decision leaves the door open to future restrictions on mifepristone, either imposed by the FDA after its politically-motivated "review," or by courts at the request of Louisiana or other future litigants.

Mifepristone was first approved by the FDA more than 25 years ago and has since been used safely and effectively by more than 7.5 million people.

Statement from Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America:

"While this case is paused and mifepristone access remains unchanged for now, we know the fight is far from over. The judge's ruling leaves the door open for future restrictions to mifepristone access. From the courts to the Trump administration to state legislatures across the country, mifepristone and abortion access are very much still under attack. Planned Parenthood organizations will continue to fight for patients to have the freedom to access care that is safe and effective - free from political interference."

Abortion via telehealth using mifepristone has been instrumental in expanding access to reproductive health care as it eliminates the need for costly or burdensome travel and increases access for low-income patients, Black and Latino patients, patients in rural areas and health care deserts, and patients with disabilities. Where legal, Planned Parenthood health centers provide medication abortion via telehealth consistent with the latest evidence-backed research and the appropriate standard of patient care, including medical screening, clinical consultation with a provider, and follow-up support. For more information on the safety and efficacy of mifepristone and threats to access, see here.

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Planned Parenthood is the nation's leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for all people, as well as the nation's largest provider of sex education. With nearly 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect, and without judgment, striving to create equitable access to health care. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable education and information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives. Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports the independently incorporated Planned Parenthood affiliates operating health centers across the U.S.