The FDA has begun a safety review of mifepristone, a drug used for medicated abortions, following pressure from anti-abortion advocates who feel the Trump administration has delayed action on abortion regulations. The review is expected to take about six months, potentially concluding after the midterm elections.

• 01The FDA's safety review of mifepristone comes amid growing frustration from anti-abortion advocates with the Trump administration's pace on abortion regulations.
• 02In 2023, the FDA removed the requirement for in-person screening for mifepristone, increasing access through telehealth.
• 03Medication abortions represent approximately 65% of all abortions in the U.S., as reported by the Guttmacher Institute.
• 04Former FDA Commissioner Marty Makary and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had committed to reviewing mifepristone's safety under new telehealth rules.
• 05Senator Bill Cassidy criticized the administration for not reinstating the in-person requirement for mifepristone, claiming it endangers women.

The FDA's review of mifepristone could influence access to medication abortions across the U.S.