Drug
Mifepristone
Pronounced
"MIF-e-PRIS-tone"
Uses
This medication is used to control high blood sugar in people who have a certain condition (Cushing's syndrome), and who have failed surgery or cannot have surgery to correct the condition. Cushing's syndrome is caused by the body producing too much of a certain hormone (cortisol) which can cause glucose intolerance or type 2 diabetes. Mifepristone works by blocking the effects of cortisol.
Warning
Mifepristone may cause a loss of pregnancy. Before starting this medication, women of childbearing age must get a pregnancy test to confirm that they are not pregnant. Women must avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medication and for one month after stopping this medication. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss using a reliable form of non-hormonal birth control (such as condoms, diaphragm with spermicide). If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away. If this medication is stopped for more than 14 days, women of childbearing age must get another pregnancy test to confirm that they are not pregnant before restarting the medication.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking mifepristone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with a meal as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablets.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
Do not stop taking this medicine unless instructed by your doctor. If this medication is stopped, you may need to restart at a lower dose and gradually increase the dose again. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for instructions on restarting your medication if you have not taken it for several days.
Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication.