Journal of the American Pharmacists Association (JAPhA)Pharmacists’ Experiences Dispensing Misoprostol and Readiness to Dispense Mifepristone

Pharmacists Ready to Dispense Mifepristone with Basic Training

The study explores the readiness and comfort of pharmacists in dispensing mifepristone, a medication commonly used for abortion and early miscarriage care, in light of recent changes in FDA regulations.

Study Design

• The study was conducted through in-depth interviews with 21 US-based pharmacists and pharmacy trainees.
• The interviews took place between June and December of 2021, a period when few pharmacists were allowed to dispense mifepristone.

According to the World Health Organization, medical abortion using a combination of mifepristone and misoprostol is highly effective during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Key Findings

• Participants reported varied knowledge about medications for miscarriage and abortion but described themselves as generally knowledgeable about medications.
• Most participants said they would feel ready to dispense mifepristone, and many described dispensing misoprostol without difficulty.
• Potential challenges specific to mifepristone dispensing included employer hesitation and colleague refusals.
• To assure successful dispensing, participants recommended basic training and fact sheets; relationships with prescribers for follow-up; and policies for prescription transfers in the event of refusal.
• Nearly all participants would feel ready to dispense mifepristone with some basic training.

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