Uptofive Tablet (Ulipristal Acetate 30 mg): Emergency Contraceptive Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Severe one-sided lower abdominal pain, which may be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy.
- Fainting, dizziness, or shoulder tip pain along with abdominal pain.
- Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing, which may indicate a severe allergic reaction.
- Vomiting within three hours of taking the tablet, because the dose may not have been absorbed.
- A missed period of more than seven days after taking this medicine, which requires a pregnancy test.
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain that does not settle.
- Signs of a serious infection such as high fever with pelvic pain or unusual discharge.
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is uptofive tablet used for?
This medicine is a single-dose emergency contraceptive tablet containing ulipristal acetate 30 mg. It works mainly by delaying or stopping ovulation and is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 24 hours and no later than 120 hours. It is not a regular birth control method and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
- Generic Name: Ulipristal acetate (30mg)
- Manufacturer: German Remedies
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 uptofive tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा उलिप्रिस्टल एसीटेट 30 मिलीग्राम की एक टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग आपातकालीन गर्भनिरोध के लिए किया जाता है। असुरक्षित संभोग या नियमित गर्भनिरोधक तरीके के विफल होने के बाद गर्भावस्था की संभावना को कम करने के लिए यह दवा ली जाती है। यह मुख्य रूप से ओव्यूलेशन को रोककर या देर से करके काम करती है, जिससे शुक्राणु और अंडाणु का मिलन नहीं हो पाता। यह दवा जितनी जल्दी ली जाए, उतनी ही अधिक प्रभावी होती है, और असुरक्षित संभोग के 120 घंटे के भीतर ली जा सकती है। यह नियमित गर्भनिरोधक गोली नहीं है और इसे बार-बार नहीं लेना चाहिए। यह दवा यौन संचारित संक्रमणों से सुरक्षा नहीं देती, इसलिए कंडोम का उपयोग जारी रखना चाहिए। यदि आप पहले से गर्भवती हैं, तो यह दवा गर्भावस्था को समाप्त नहीं करेगी। इस दवा को लेने से पहले डॉक्टर या योग्य स्वास्थ्यकर्मी से सलाह अवश्य लें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा को लेने पर अधिकांश महिलाओं में कोई गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव नहीं होता। आमतौर पर सिरदर्द, जी मिचलाना, पेट या पेल्विक क्षेत्र में दर्द और थकान महसूस हो सकती है। कुछ महिलाओं को चक्कर आना, स्तनों में कोमलता या अगली माहवारी में देरी हो सकती है। ये लक्षण आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और अपने आप ठीक हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी उल्टी, दस्त, मूड में बदलाव या मुँहासे भी हो सकते हैं। यदि दवा लेने के तीन घंटे के भीतर उल्टी हो जाए, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें, क्योंकि दवा का असर कम हो सकता है। चेहरे, होंठ या गले में सूजन, साँस लेने में कठिनाई या गंभीर पेट दर्द होने पर तुरंत आपातकालीन चिकित्सा सहायता लें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल आपातकालीन गर्भनिरोध के लिए है और इसे नियमित गर्भनिरोधक तरीके के रूप में इस्तेमाल नहीं करना चाहिए। यह दवा असुरक्षित संभोग के बाद जितनी जल्दी ली जाए, उतनी ही अधिक प्रभावी होती है। यह यौन संचारित संक्रमणों से सुरक्षा नहीं देती, इसलिए कंडोम का उपयोग करना चाहिए। यदि दवा लेने के तीन घंटे के भीतर उल्टी हो जाए, तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें क्योंकि दोबारा खुराक की आवश्यकता हो सकती है। यह गर्भपात की दवा नहीं है और पहले से बनी गर्भावस्था को समाप्त नहीं करती। यदि अगली माहवारी सात दिन से अधिक देर से आए, तो गर्भावस्था परीक्षण कराएँ और डॉक्टर से मिलें। अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी दवाओं के बारे में बताएँ, विशेष रूप से मिर्गी, तपेदिक, एचआईवी या फंगल संक्रमण की दवाओं के बारे में। इस दवा को बच्चों की पहुँच से दूर रखें और किसी और के साथ साझा न करें।
💊 uptofive tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Emergency contraception after unprotected intercourse","description":"This medicine is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or after a known or suspected contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom or a missed oral contraceptive pill.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Emergency contraception after contraceptive failure","description":"It may be used when a regular contraceptive method has failed or was used incorrectly, provided that the woman is not already pregnant.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Preoperative treatment of uterine fibroids","description":"Ulipristal acetate at higher daily doses and for longer durations has been studied for the pre-operative treatment of uterine fibroids, but this is a different dosing regimen from the 30 mg emergency contraceptive tablet and should only be used under specialist supervision.","evidence":"Established for a different dose and regimen, not for this 30 mg product"}]
Primary treatment for: Unintended pregnancy prevention after unprotected intercourse
Also treats: Contraceptive failure, Emergency contraception need
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Ulipristal acetate (30mg) |
| Brand Name | uptofive tablet |
| Manufacturer | German Remedies |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | GYNAECOLOGICAL |
| Action Class | Selective Progesterone receptor modulators(SPRM) |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store this medicine at room temperature, between 15°C and 30°C, in a dry place. Keep it in the original packaging to protect it from light and moisture. Do not refrigerate unless the label specifically says so. Keep it out of the reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life is usually 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the manufacturer and pack. Always check the expiry date printed on the pack and do not use the medicine after that date. |
| WHO Guideline | Emergency contraceptive pills, including ulipristal acetate, are recognized in international guidance as options for emergency contraception. The exact recommendations should be checked against the latest World Health Organization guidance, and this medicine should be used under the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. Please refer to the latest Indian Council of Medical Research guidance and consult a qualified clinician for advice specific to India. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine is a selective progesterone receptor modulator. It binds with high affinity to progesterone receptors and acts mainly as an antagonist at these receptors in the pituitary and ovary. By blocking progesterone action, it suppresses the surge of luteinising hormone that triggers ovulation. When ovulation is delayed or inhibited, the released egg is not available to be fertilised by sperm, which is how pregnancy is prevented. This medicine may also have mild effects on the endometrium, but its main contraceptive action is inhibition or delay of ovulation.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take uptofive tablet
Strength: Ulipristal acetate 30 mg immediate-release tablet.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | For emergency contraception, the usual adult dose of this medicine is one 30 mg tablet taken orally as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 24 hours and no later than 120 hours. It can be taken with or without food. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, the time since unprotected intercourse, the woman's age, and her renal and hepatic function. This medicine is not intended for repeated or routine use, and a regular contraceptive method should be discussed for ongoing protection. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. This medicine is intended for use in women of reproductive age after puberty. Consult a pediatrician or adolescent health specialist for advice. |
| Elderly Dosage | This medicine is not intended for use in elderly women, as it is an emergency contraceptive for women of reproductive age. There is no established role for this medicine in older adults. |
| Renal Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is usually required for mild to moderate kidney impairment. In severe kidney disease, caution is advised and a doctor should be consulted before use. |
| Hepatic Impairment | This medicine is metabolised in the liver. It should be used with caution in women with severe liver disease, and a doctor should assess whether it is appropriate. No specific dose adjustment is established for mild or moderate liver impairment. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended dose for emergency contraception is a single 30 mg tablet. This medicine should not be taken more than once in the same menstrual cycle unless a doctor specifically advises it. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of uptofive tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Rifampicin | Major | |
| Carbamazepine | Major | |
| Phenytoin | Major | |
| St John's wort | Major | |
| Ketoconazole | Moderate | |
| Itraconazole | Moderate | |
| Ritonavir | Moderate | |
| Progestogen-containing contraceptives | Moderate | |
| Grapefruit juice | Minor | |
| Paracetamol | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers such as rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and St John's wort
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and ritonavir
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Hormonal contraceptives containing progestogens
- Medicines that increase stomach acid or affect gastric emptying
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
There is no specific known interaction between this medicine and alcohol, but alcohol can increase the risk of dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. It is sensible to avoid heavy drinking around the time of taking this medicine, and to avoid alcohol if you feel unwell.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known pregnancy, because this medicine will not terminate an existing pregnancy.","Known hypersensitivity or allergy to ulipristal acetate or any ingredient of the tablet.","Use as a regular method of contraception, because it is not designed for routine use.","Severe uncontrolled liver disease, unless a doctor has specifically assessed the balance of benefits and risks."]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine is for emergency use only and is not a substitute for regular contraception.","It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so barrier protection should still be used.","If vomiting occurs within three hours of taking the tablet, the dose may not be fully absorbed and medical advice should be sought.","A pregnancy test should be done if the next period is more than seven days late.","Women with severe asthma, severe liver disease, or a history of hormone-sensitive conditions should consult a doctor before use.","This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Do not take this medicine if you are already pregnant or think you may be pregnant.","Inform your doctor about all other medicines, especially those for epilepsy, tuberculosis, HIV, or fungal infections."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
This medicine passes into breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered acceptable for use during breastfeeding, but the amount that reaches the baby is very small. Women who are breastfeeding should discuss the timing of the dose with a healthcare professional, and some clinicians suggest expressing and discarding breast milk for a short period after taking the tablet. This decision should be made with medical advice.
💊 Overdose Management
There is no specific antidote for an overdose of this medicine. If more than the recommended dose has been taken, seek medical advice promptly. Treatment is supportive and based on the symptoms that appear. Do not try to make yourself vomit unless a healthcare professional advises it.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is usually taken as a single dose when needed for emergency contraception, so a missed dose schedule does not normally apply. If you are prescribed this medicine for another reason and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Follow the specific instructions given by your doctor.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine is an emergency contraceptive and must not be used as a regular method of birth control. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, and it becomes less effective as time passes. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so barrier protection should still be used. If vomiting occurs within three hours of taking the tablet, speak to a doctor or pharmacist because a repeat dose may be needed. This medicine is not an abortion pill and will not end an existing pregnancy. A follow-up pregnancy test is advised if the next menstrual period is more than seven days late. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially those used for epilepsy, tuberculosis, HIV, or fungal infections, because some of these can reduce the effectiveness of this medicine. Do not share this medicine with anyone else, and keep it out of the reach of children.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
This medicine is not intended for use in elderly women, as it is an emergency contraceptive for women of reproductive age. There is no established role for this medicine in older adults.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse and is not intended for use if you are already pregnant or trying to conceive. If you are planning a pregnancy, discuss appropriate preconception care and folic acid supplementation with your doctor. If you have taken this medicine and then decide to try for a pregnancy, there is no known need to delay conception, but you should discuss this with your doctor.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
There is no specific guidance for this medicine after surgery. If you have recently had surgery and need emergency contraception, inform the surgeon and anaesthetist about all medicines you are taking, and follow the advice of your healthcare team.
🦷 Dental Procedures
There is no specific interaction between this medicine and dental procedures or local anaesthetics. Inform your dentist about all medicines you are taking, including this one, before any dental procedure.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
There is no specific restriction on exercise after taking this medicine. If you feel dizzy, tired, or have abdominal cramping, rest until you feel better before resuming strenuous activity. Listen to your body and avoid heavy exertion if you feel unwell.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause dizziness, fatigue, or headache in some women. If you feel dizzy or unusually tired, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel normal. Most women are able to continue their usual daily activities after taking this medicine, but it is sensible to take it easy if you feel unwell.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
This medicine is taken as a single dose for emergency contraception, so there is no ongoing course to stop. If you have been prescribed this medicine for another reason, do not stop it without consulting your doctor. Seek medical advice if you experience severe side effects or if your next period is more than seven days late.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
This medicine is intended for occasional emergency use and is not designed for long-term or repeated use. There is no established safety data for using this medicine repeatedly over a long period as a contraceptive. Women who need ongoing contraception should discuss a regular method with a doctor. Repeated use of emergency contraception may be less effective and can disrupt the menstrual cycle. Regular review with a healthcare professional is advised to ensure appropriate contraceptive choices and to monitor any concerns.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
A highly effective emergency contraceptive method that can be inserted by a trained clinician within five days of unprotected intercourse.
Evidence: Well-establishedAnother oral emergency contraceptive option that works mainly by delaying ovulation.
Evidence: Well-establishedLong-term options such as combined oral contraceptives, progestogen-only pills, injectables, implants, or intrauterine devices provide reliable ongoing protection.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There is no known interaction between this medicine and routine vaccines. Vaccination can be given when needed, but always inform the healthcare professional about any medicines you are taking.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless the label specifically says so
✅ DO
Keep in the original container with the label intact
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
❌ DON'T
Do not store in a bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Keep out of the reach of children
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When travelling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the label intact. Keep a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor, as some countries may ask for documentation for prescription medicines. Store the tablet at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. If you are crossing time zones, this medicine is taken as a single dose when needed, so time zone adjustments are not usually required. Check the customs rules of your destination country before carrying prescription medicines across borders.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts working soon after it is taken, but its effect depends on where you are in your menstrual cycle. It works best when taken before ovulation. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 24 hours and no later than 120 hours.
A: No. This medicine is an emergency contraceptive and will not terminate an established pregnancy. It works mainly by delaying or preventing ovulation before fertilisation can occur.
A: No. This medicine does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Barrier protection such as condoms should still be used.
A: If you vomit within three hours of taking this medicine, contact a doctor or pharmacist promptly, because the dose may not have been fully absorbed and a repeat dose or another emergency method may be needed.
A: Some medicines, especially those used for epilepsy, tuberculosis, HIV, and fungal infections, can affect how well this medicine works. Always tell your doctor about all the medicines you take before using this medicine.
A: Your next period may come a few days earlier or later than expected. If your period is more than seven days late, take a pregnancy test and consult a doctor.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine works as an abortion pill.
Fact: This medicine is an emergency contraceptive that works mainly by delaying or preventing ovulation. It does not terminate an established pregnancy. - Myth: This medicine can be used as a regular birth control method.
Fact: This medicine is for emergency use only. It is less effective than regular contraception and should not replace a routine contraceptive method. - Myth: This medicine protects against sexually transmitted infections.
Fact: This medicine does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Barrier protection such as condoms should still be used. - Myth: This medicine is effective at any time after unprotected sex.
Fact: This medicine is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Its effectiveness decreases with time and it is not intended for use beyond 120 hours.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Ulipristal acetate 30 mg tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Uptofive Tablet