ONE LITTLE PILL IS HAVING A MOMENT

HERE'S WHY YOU'RE HEARING SO MUCH ABOUT MIFEPRISTONE, AND WHY IT'S SO IMPORTANT TO WOMEN'S HEALTH.

- LAUREN STREICHER

A couple of years ago, the FDA changed the way a drug, one that had been safely used for more than 20 years, could be dispensed: Instead of doctors being the only ones who could give mifepristone to patients, pharmacists would be able to fill prescriptions from certified medical providers. Major drugstore chains then announced that the drug would be available at their retail stores.

But then, last spring, the Supreme Court reviewed a case that could have rescinded FDA approval of the drug altogether, and the medical community expects more such challenges.

Confused? That's understandable. So what is this drug, also known as RU-486 and Mifeprex? And is it so dangerous that the courts must take action, or is it so safe that it can be picked up from a pharmacist at your corner drugstore?

To answer these questions, it's helpful to know what mifepristone does: The pill is used primarily to end very early pregnancies. Currently, more than 60% of pregnancy terminations before 10 weeks' gestation in the U.S. are performed with medication, and the combination of mifepristone and another drug, misoprostol, is used in more than 98% of those terminations. This drug combo is also employed to treat miscarriage, speeding up the process and lowering the odds that surgery will be required.

How does it work?