ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
It works better than levonorgestrel later in the 5-day window and may work better at higher body weights.
What it's used for
- Preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex or birth control failure
How to take it
- Take one tablet as soon as possible, within 5 days (120 hours).
- Wait 5 days before starting or restarting hormonal birth control, and use condoms until your next period.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Headache
- Nausea
- Belly pain
- Changes in your next period
Call 911Severe lower belly pain 3 to 5 weeks later (possible ectopic pregnancy)
Warnings
- Not for regular birth control.
- Avoid breastfeeding for 1 week after taking it.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Rifampin, some seizure medicines, and St. John's wort make it less effective.
- Hormonal birth control taken too soon can make it less effective.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Not for use if already pregnant.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Not applicable: it's a single dose.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Ulipristal (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.