US Health Secretary RFK Jr. launches FDA safety review of abortion pill mifepristone amid political scrutiny

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary have initiated a review of the abortion pill mifepristone's safety and efficacy following a request from 22 Republican attorneys general. The review responds to concerns raised by a conservative think tank's study claiming nearly 11% of users experienced serious adverse events, a figure much higher than the FDA's reported 0.5%, although the study has not been peer-reviewed. This review could lead to changes in how mifepristone is prescribed and dispensed, potentially reinstating in-person prescribing requirements that would restrict telehealth access and mailing of the drug, impacting states with abortion bans. The move has sparked conflicting political pressures as it aligns with Republican efforts to limit abortion access, yet contrasts with President Trump's campaign pledge to leave abortion policy to the states. Advocates for abortion rights fear the safety review may be used to justify restricting access, especially ahead of midterm elections. The investigation highlights ongoing tensions in U.S. abortion policy post-Roe v. Wade and the increasing use of medication abortions nationwide.