It also binds to the androgen receptor and the glucocorticoid receptor, but is only a weak antiandrogen and antiglucocorticoid relative to flutamide and mifepristone, respectively. Ulipristal acetate has no relevant affinity to the estrogen and mineralocorticoid receptors. Phase II clinical trials suggest that the mechanism might consist of blocking or delaying ovulation and of delaying the maturation of the endometrium. Pharmacokinetics
In animal studies, the drug was quickly and nearly completely absorbed from the gut. Intake of food delays absorption, but it is not known whether this is clinically relevant.Ulipristal acetate is metabolized in the liver, most likely by CYP3A4, and to a small extent by CYP1A2 and CYP2D6. The two main metabolites have been shown to be pharmacologically active, but less than the original drug. The main excretion route is via the feces. History
Ulipristal acetate was granted marketing authorization by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in May 2009. In 2014, the EMA recommended ulipristal be made available without a prescription in the European Union.The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the drug for use in the United States on 13 August 2010, following the FDA advisory committees recommendation. Watson Pharmaceuticals announced the availability of ulipristal acetate in the United States on 1 December 2010, in retail pharmacies, clinics, and one on-line pharmacy, KwikMed. Society and culture
Brand names
Ulipristal acetate is marketed in the United States under the brand name Ella and in Canada under the brand name Fibristal.
It is also marketed under the brand names EllaOne and Esmya in many countries including the United Kingdom and Ireland. A few less-widely used brand names also exist. References
External links
"Ulipristal acetate". Drug Information Portal. U.S. National Library of Medicine.