New Study on Risks of Abortion Pill RU-486

March 26th, 2006

Califonia Deaths Investigated

In May, the FDA will hold a day-long scientific meeting to look into sudden deaths of four California women after taking abortion pill RU-486 in early pregnancy. A bacterial infection killed all four within days of their taking the pills — sold under brand name Mifeprex, and a follow-up drug called misoprostol. It is uncertain how each contracted the unusual infection and whether it was related to taking Mifeprex.

Dr. Marc Fischer, medical epidemiologist at the Center for Disease Control, will present at the workshop. His theory is that pregnancy or abortion could predispose a tiny number of women to acquire the bacteria that produce toxins in the lining of the blood vessels. The California women died from rapidly developing toxic shock brought on by the bacterium Clostridium sordellii.

Most abortion providers maintain that RU-486 is effective and safe when administered correctly and with careful patient monitoring and follow-up. More than 460,000 doses of Mifeprex have been sold in the U.S. to abortion providers since its approval. Half a million women in 35 countries have taken the abortion pill.

At the workshop, participants will develop a draft research agenda and put together recommendations for detecting the toxic condition. A panel of experts in immunology, epidemiology, and gynecological infections will present information at the investigatory meeting to determine whether RU-486 used in medical abortions needs further study.

Source:  The Oakland Tribune, 2/15/06 
(Contact Rebecca Vesely at rvesely@angnewspapers.com)

 

Entry Filed under: ABORTION,Abortion,PRESCRIPTION DRUGS,WOMEN'S HEALTHCARE