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Korlym vs. Mifepristone

Korlym, also known by its generic name mifepristone, is a cortisol receptor blocker. It's used to manage high blood sugar levels in certain adults with Cushing's syndrome who have Type 2 diabetes. This medication is an option for people if they can't have surgery or if surgery didn't help with their condition. Korlym (mifepristone) is a tablet that's taken by mouth once per day with food. Dosage adjustments are based on how well the medication is working. It also depends on whether you have unpleasant side effects. Common side effects include nausea, fatigue, and headache.

• Managing high blood sugar levels in adults with Cushing's syndrome and Type 2 diabetes who can't have surgery or who've already tried surgery

• Nausea (48%)
• Fatigue (48%)
• Headache (44%)
• Low potassium levels (34%)
• Joint pain (30%)
• Vomiting (26%)
• Swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet (26%)
• High blood pressure (24%)
• Dizziness (22%)
• Low appetite (20%)
• Dry mouth (18%)

• Loss of pregnancy
• Must use nonhormonal birth control if you're sexually active and able to get pregnant
• Low adrenal hormone levels (adrenal insufficiency)
• Vaginal bleeding and changes to the uterine lining
• Low potassium levels
• Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
• Interactions with other medications

Mifepristone (Mifeprex) is used together with misoprostol (Cytotec) for medical abortion (using prescribed medications to end a pregnancy). These medications are typically used in people no more than 10 weeks pregnant. In some cases, it can be prescribed to people up to 11 weeks pregnant. Mifepristone (Mifeprex) is only available by prescription in certain U.S. states from certain healthcare providers (including some pharmacies). Taking mifepristone (Mifeprex) with misoprostol (Cytotec) can cause side effects like nausea and cramps. Vaginal bleeding is also an expected symptom after you've taken these abortion pills, but a lot of heavy bleeding can be a sign of serious complications. You'll need to follow up with your provider to make sure your pregnancy has ended completely.

• Ending a pregnancy that's no more than 10 weeks along, when used together with misoprostol (Cytotec)

• Nausea (51-75%)
• Weakness (55-58%)
• Fever or chills (48%)
• Vomiting (37-48%)
• Headache (41-44%)
• Diarrhea (18-43%)
• Dizziness (39-41%)

• Serious infection
• Serious vaginal bleeding