The use of selective progestin receptor modulators (SPRMs) and more specifically ulipristal acetate in the practice of gynaecology

Abstract

This review discusses the development of selective progestin receptor modulators (SPRMs) for use in women's health and specifically the use of ulipristal acetate (UPA) as emergency contraception (EC) and as a treatment for symptomatic fibroids in women who want to preserve their fertility or avoid a hysterectomy. As an EC, UPA 30 mg should be recommended for women, within 102 h of unprotected intercourse. As a treatment of fibroids, UPA (5 mg daily dose) should be administered for periods of three months as a pre-surgical strategy, reducing bleeding and fibroid size and facilitating surgery. A proportion of these patients may even avoid surgery. Future developments will demonstrate whether UPA can be used for other indications such as endometriosis and breast cancer prevention or treatment.