ulipristal acetate

Ulipristal acetate (UPA) is a selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM) being developed by the Population Council, in partnership with the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and HRA Pharma, as a long-acting contraceptive vaginal ring (CVR). This matrix-type ring is designed for continuous use over a three-month period, providing a sustained release of UPA (1500-2500 μg/day) to suppress ovulation. Unlike the emergency contraceptive pill formulation (brand name ella), this program focuses on regular, estrogen-free contraception, offering a viable alternative for women who cannot use estrogen-containing products. Clinical development has progressed through Phase 1 and Phase 2 trials, evaluating the ring's efficacy in inhibiting ovulation both as a monotherapy and in combination with oral levonorgestrel, while also monitoring endometrial safety and bleeding patterns.

Brand names

ellaOneElla

Other names

ulipristal acetate contraceptive vaginal ringulipristal acetate vaginal ring