Гинестрил

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Гинестрил

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Method of action: Contraceptive

Treatment option: Pregnancy, Uterine Leiomyomata

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Гинестрил

Property Description
Active ingredient Mifepristone
Form Oral Tablet
Pharmacological class Progestin Antagonist, Antiglucocorticoid
Origin Synthetic 19-nor Steroid

What Type of Drug is Гинестрил and Its Origin?

Гинестрил is a prescription-only medicinal preparation defined by its single active component, the highly potent synthetic 19-nor steroid compound known as Mifepristone. It is classified primarily as a progestin antagonist and is delivered to the patient in the form of an oral tablet. Mifepristone's classification as a selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM) underlies its unique action. This compound is characterized by its high affinity for the progesterone receptor, acting as a targeted tool for modulating endocrine pathways. The drug’s identity stems from its chemical structure, which positions it as a hormone antagonist specifically designed to interfere with hormonal signaling.

Mifepristone: Pharmacological Class and Composition

Mifepristone is the core substance of Гинестрил, which defines the preparation's classification as an antiprogestational steroid. The tablet formulation consists of the active ingredient combined with inert solid oral excipients necessary for creation of the delivery form. Mifepristone is characterized by its potent antagonistic function, which manifests through the competitive interaction with progesterone receptors, and it also exhibits a secondary property as a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist. The mechanism of the drug is based on its ability to block the action of progesterone. This dual-receptor activity provides a specific pharmacological profile within the realm of hormone-modulating compounds.

General Purpose of the Antiprogestational Action

The general purpose of Гинестрил is linked to its capacity to inhibit progesterone action, facilitating biological change within the uterus. By functioning as a progestin antagonist, the preparation neutralizes the signals from progesterone, a hormone involved in maintaining the uterine lining and pregnancy. This mechanism serves as the principle for its application in medical settings where controlled modulation of progesterone-dependent uterine tissues is required, such as the management of conditions like uterine leiomyomata or procedures concerning the non-surgical interruption of pregnancy.

Regulatory References

  1. Mifepristone Drug Information (MedlinePlus/NIH)

What side effects are possible with Гинестрил?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Gestrinone (Гинестрил) is dominated by its hormonal activity, specifically its potent anti-estrogenic and mild androgenic effects.

Adverse Reactions by System and Frequency

Adverse reactions are broadly classified based on the affected body system. While formal regulatory frequency definitions (Very Common, Common, etc.) apply, the overall safety experience indicates that most patients experience at least one side effect.

System-Organ Class Key Adverse Reactions (Commonly Reported)
Reproductive System Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), reduction in breast size, oligomenorrhea.
Skin and Subcutaneous Acne, seborrhea (oily skin/hair), hirsutism (excessive hair growth), scalp hair loss.
Metabolic/Endocrine Weight gain (ranging from 0.9 to 8 kg), increased liver transaminases, altered lipid profile (e.g., decreased HDL cholesterol).
General Hot flushes, headache, cramps.

Some androgenic effects, such as a deepening of the voice or hirsutism, may be persistent or irreversible.

Safety Restrictions and Monitoring

The use of Gestrinone is subject to several significant regulatory restrictions and requirements for caution:

  • Pregnancy and Fetal Risk: The medication is contraindicated in known or suspected pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm, including the potential for masculinization of a female fetus.
  • Contraindications: Use is restricted in patients with severe cardiac, renal, or hepatic disease, undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding, and a known history of metabolic or vascular disorders related to previous hormonal therapy.
  • Safety Monitoring: Due to the drug’s metabolic influence, regulatory documents advise monitoring liver transaminases and lipid profiles (cholesterol levels) in all patients, particularly those with pre-existing hyperlipidemia or diabetes.

Overall Safety Profile

The established safety information emphasizes that the risk profile is primarily manageable and predictable, centering on the side effects associated with androgenization and estrogen suppression. The most critical safety restriction is avoiding the use of the drug during pregnancy. Careful monitoring is required to manage metabolic and hepatic changes, which are known risks associated with this class of hormonal agents.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

In the event of a suspected overdose of Mifepristone (the active component of Гинестрил), immediate emergency medical attention is required. Manifestations of acute toxicity have been documented in official sources, including abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and confusion. Massive overdose in humans has been observed to lead to a compensatory increase in adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol.

Overdose management, as cited in regulatory documents, is supportive and symptomatic. This typically includes interventions such as gastric lavage and the administration of activated charcoal.

Urgent Medical Intervention

It is imperative to seek emergency medical care immediately for a suspected overdose, regardless of the presence or severity of symptoms. Immediate help is also required if a person collapses, experiences a seizure, has trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened.

Special Considerations

While an acute overdose may present with temporary gastrointestinal or mental status changes, the highest priority is immediate professional management. Call a poison control center or emergency services right away if there is any indication of excessive exposure.

Therapeutic Uses of Гинестрил

What Гинестрил Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Гинестрил is commonly used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms, offering targeted symptomatic relief and supportive relief. It is utilized to assist with concerns related to both reproductive health and systemic imbalances.


It is relevant in clinical settings marked by increased discomfort or tension, commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes such as uterine leiomyomata (fibroids) and conditions involving systemic imbalance like severe hyperglycemia associated with endogenous Cushing Syndrome. In gynecological settings, it helps to manage symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, such as heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pressure. In endocrine settings, it is relevant for managing symptoms related to systemic imbalance, where glucose intolerance and high blood sugar create noticeable physiological strain.

“It is applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, offering support that helps ease the overall symptom burden.”

This provides supportive relief that assists with maintaining functional stability during symptomatic periods and helps patients cope more steadily with challenging symptoms.


Quick Fact: Support for Progesterone-Driven Symptoms

Гинестрил is commonly used to help with conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, such as uterine fibroids, providing support to ease discomfort and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.

Regulatory References

  1. Mifepristone - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Гинестрил (Ginestril) is a medication containing the active ingredient mifepristone, a synthetic steroid that acts as an antiprogestogen. In certain formulations and dosages, it is primarily used in gynecology.

Who Can Use Гинестрил?

The most common authorized use for mifepristone-containing products in gynecology is the treatment of uterine leiomyoma (fibroids) in women of reproductive age, particularly when the size of the fibroids corresponds to a maximum of 12 weeks of pregnancy. Its mechanism involves blocking progesterone receptors, which can help stop the growth of the tumor and reduce the size of the uterus and myomatous nodes.

Who Cannot Use Гинестрил?

Гинестрил is contraindicated in a number of conditions due to the risk of serious adverse effects. Patients should not use this medication if they have:

  • Pregnancy or Lactation (breastfeeding).
  • Hypersensitivity (allergy) to mifepristone.
  • Adrenal insufficiency or are on long-term corticosteroid therapy.
  • Acute or chronic renal or hepatic failure.
  • Porphyria, severe anemia, or hemostasis disorders (including those treated with anticoagulants).
  • Inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs.
  • Submucosal location of myomatous nodes.
  • Uterine leiomyoma size greater than a 12-week pregnancy equivalent.
  • Tumors of the ovaries and/or endometrial hyperplasia.
  • Severe extragenital pathology (pre-existing serious non-reproductive health conditions).

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Mifepristone (Гинестрил) is associated with several clinically significant interactions, primarily due to its effects on the liver's CYP3A4 enzyme system and its own activity as a CYP inhibitor. The official regulatory labeling documents these interactions, leading to specific use restrictions.

Metabolic (Pharmacokinetic) Interactions

Mifepristone is metabolized by CYP3A4, and it is also a potent inhibitor of this enzyme, affecting the metabolism of numerous other drugs. It also weakly inhibits CYP2C8, CYP2C9, and the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) transporter.

Interaction Type Examples of Affected Substances Regulatory Requirement
Exposure Reduction (Induction) Strong CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampin, St. John's Wort, Phenytoin) Concurrent use must be avoided due to risk of lower Mifepristone effectiveness.
Exposure Increase (Inhibition) Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Grapefruit Juice) Use with caution due to increased Mifepristone exposure; dosage adjustments may be required.

Pharmacodynamic and Contraindicated Interactions

Certain combinations are contraindicated or require extreme caution due to additive risks, regardless of metabolic effects. The label prohibits co-administration with drugs primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 that possess a narrow therapeutic index (e.g., Simvastatin, Cyclosporine) for certain Mifepristone uses. Furthermore, concurrent use with anticoagulant therapy is contraindicated for the pregnancy termination indication due to the documented increase in the risk of severe or prolonged bleeding.

Mechanism of Action

The function of Гинестрил (Mifepristone) is defined by its specific action within key hormonal and physiological regulatory domains, leading to a cascade of effects that modulate uterine processes.

Blocking Progesterone Signaling at the Receptor Level

The drug's primary action is the competitive antagonism of the Progesterone Receptor (PR). This molecular blockade prevents the endogenous hormone, progesterone, from activating the receptor complex, thereby suppressing the necessary gene transcription required for maintaining the uterine lining. This ultimately triggers the structural breakdown and shedding of progesterone-dependent tissue.

Enhancing Uterine Contraction Sensitivity

A key downstream effect of the PR antagonism is the modulation of myometrial tone. By neutralizing progesterone's inhibitory influence on the uterine muscle, the drug increases the tissue's responsiveness to prostaglandins and other natural contractile agents. This functional change generates coordinated uterine contractions, which are a consequence of the mechanism.

Inducing Connective Tissue Remodeling

The mechanism extends to the structural integrity of the reproductive tract by promoting the enzymatic degradation of collagen. This process, mediated by the induction of Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs), results in the softening and ripening of the cervix, which is a resulting physiological component.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Гинестрил (Mifepristone): Official Administration Guidelines

The administration of Mifepristone (the active ingredient in Гинестрил) is highly prescriptive and depends on the condition being addressed, following established protocols. The official routes and methods are outlined below, focusing strictly on administration and dosing descriptions as defined in the product labeling.


Official Dosing and Administration

Feature General Guideline
Route of Administration Oral Tablet.
Formulation Requirement The tablets are to be swallowed whole and should not be split, crushed, or chewed.
Timing in Relation to Meals For continuous, daily therapy (e.g., in Cushing Syndrome), the medication is taken with food.

Indication-Specific Use Patterns

The frequency and dose vary and are categorized into short-course procedures and long-term continuous therapy:

  • Long-term, Continuous Use (e.g., Cushing Syndrome): The starting dose is typically 300 mg once daily. The dose may be increased in 300 mg increments every 2–4 weeks, up to a maximum of 1200 mg per day. This is a sustained regimen involving a period of gradual dose titration.
  • Short-course, Single-Dose Use (e.g., Medical Termination): A single 200 mg dose of mifepristone is administered orally. This is followed by a co-administered medication 24 to 48 hours later, and a follow-up assessment is conducted 7 to 14 days after the mifepristone dose.

Population-Based Adjustments and Special Conditions

For continuous therapy, dose limits are set for patients with certain pre-existing conditions. For instance, the maximum daily dose is restricted to 600 mg for individuals with mild to moderate hepatic or renal impairment. Additionally, the dispensing for specific uses is subject to restricted distribution programs, and any intrauterine device must be removed prior to starting treatment.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies


Core Mechanism and Phase 1 Trials

Initial research focused on how the drug affects the body, as part of the evaluation of the inflammatory response. This initial research assessed initial human response across various doses in healthy volunteers.

Phase 1 studies assessed initial human response across various doses, with reported findings focused on common adverse events. No serious adverse events were reported during these early trials.


Research on Autoimmune Conditions

The primary research focus has been the potential application in rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Small-scale trials evaluated joint function and stiffness. Outcomes included changes in function and stiffness scores.

Phase 2 studies reported observations related to disease activity over 6 months in a cohort of participants with moderate-to-severe disease. Research has explored its use in early-stage autoimmune conditions. A variety of dosing schedules were examined to identify well-tolerated administration routes.

One study examined outcomes in patients who did not respond to standard treatments. This research assessed secondary endpoints, including quality of life metrics and patient-reported pain levels.


Combination Research

Research explored the co-administration with other therapies, evaluating patient outcomes.

One open-label study evaluated the drug alongside a common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to observe tolerability. Another study protocol specified administration at the same time each day to monitor the consistency of measured drug levels.

The trials included participants with mild liver impairment. Participants with moderate impairment were excluded from the study.

Key Studies & References

  1. Inflammatory Cytokines in Psoriatic Arthritis: Understanding Pathogenesis and Implications for Treatment (Systematic Review)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Гинестрил (FAQ)


Q: What is the specific maximum dose for continuous use (not for termination)?

According to official regulatory labeling for continuous treatment regimens, the dose is started lower and may be gradually increased. Official product information indicates that the maximum daily dosage that may be reached during dose adjustments is 1200 mg.


Q: What is the name of the chemical class that this drug belongs to?

Гинестрил, which contains mifepristone, is classified primarily as a progestin antagonist, sometimes called an antiprogestational steroid. This means it works by blocking the effects of the hormone progesterone. It also has a secondary classification as an antiglucocorticoid, as it can block cortisol receptors.


Q: Can this medication cause permanent side effects, like changes to the voice?

Official product information notes that certain androgenic effects, which are related to male hormones, may be persistent or irreversible. These effects are reported to include excessive hair growth (hirsutism) and a deepening of the voice.


Q: What is the process for disposing of expired or unused Гинестрил?

Regulatory guidelines advise against saving outdated or unneeded medicine. To ensure proper public and environmental safety, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist. They can provide guidance on disposal procedures.


Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Гинестрил?

Product labeling often states that if a dose is missed, it should generally be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped. The label also advises against taking a double dose to compensate for a missed one.

How should Гинестрил be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements for Mifepristone (Гинестрил)

The storage and disposal instructions for Mifepristone tablets are strictly governed by regulatory labeling to maintain product stability and ensure public safety.

Storage Conditions

Requirement Official Regulatory Statement
Temperature Do not store above 30 C (or 25 C, depending on the formulation).
Protection Store in the original package in order to protect from light.
Child Safety Must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal

Disposal of any unused or expired product must be done in accordance with local requirements, such as returning it to a pharmacy. The medicine should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste to prevent environmental contamination.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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