Mifepristone is a drug used for medical abortion and as an emergency contraceptive. It is also known as RU 486, Mifeprex, Mifegyne, and Korlym. These are different brand names for the drug, but they all contain the same active ingredient. Other synonyms for mifepristone include progesterone receptor antagonist, antiprogesterone, and selective progesterone receptor modulator. Mifepristone's mechanism of action is to block the effects of progesterone, which is a hormone important for maintaining pregnancy. It is a safe and effective method of termination of early pregnancy when used according to the prescribed regimen.