Question

Which of the following is used as a 'morning after pill'?
a. Norethindrone
b. Ethynylestradiol
c. Mifepristone
d. Bithional

Answer 1

Hint: Emergency contraceptives are used by women in case of failed birth control or after unprotected sex. They are used only as a backup source and not the routine primary method.

Complete step-by-step anwer:
Emergency contraceptives are used by women to prevent pregnancy post-sexual intercourse. It is used in the following situations- possible contraceptive failure, incorrect contraceptive use, unprotected intercourse, and sexual assault without contraception.

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) and copper-bearing intrauterine devices are widely used forms of female contraceptives.

The mode of action in ECPs is by delaying or preventing ovulation. They can also cause chemical changes before fertilisation occurs. They can not interrupt the development of the foetus once the pregnancy is established.

Mifepristone is a well-tolerated and highly effective emergency contraceptive, which is orally taken. It blocks the action of the progesterone hormone that is required to support pregnancy. It is usually consumed within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse. A dose of 600 mg is effective in preventing pregnancy. Thus, it is used effectively as a morning-after pill.

Norethindrone is also called the mini-pill. It is a progestin medicine that does not contain oestrogen. It alters the endometrium and cervix and prevents the action of pituitary hormones that play a role in the maturation of follicles and ovulation.

Ethynylestradiol is also called co-cyprindiol, which consists of an oestrogen (ethinylestradiol), a progestin (cyproterone acetate), and an antiandrogen and is used as a birth control pill. It reduces the level of luteinizing hormone decreasing the endometrial vascularization and gonadotrophic hormone which prevent ovulation.

Bithional is a widely used antiseptic which has antibacterial, algaecide, and anthelmintic properties.

The correct option is (C) Mifepristone:

Note: Ulipristal acetate is another medication used as an emergency contraceptive. It prevents or delays ovulation after birth control failure or unprotected sex.