Judge rules FDA restrictions on mifepristone are arbitrary and capricious
Summary
A federal judge in Virginia ruled that some FDA restrictions on the abortion drug mifepristone are unreasonable and asked the FDA, under the Trump administration, to review and possibly remove these limits. The judge supported the drug’s safety, and the case challenges rules that make it harder for patients to access abortion pills.Key Facts
- Judge Robert S. Ballou called certain FDA rules on mifepristone “arbitrary and capricious.”
- The FDA has repeatedly found mifepristone safe and effective over many years.
- The case was brought by abortion providers from Virginia, Kansas, and Montana in May 2023.
- The court was asked to remove three non-medical restrictions, such as special certification for providers and confusing paperwork for patients.
- Restrictions have increased delays and stress for patients, especially as some travel to other states for care.
- Abortion pills now make up about two-thirds of all abortions in the United States.
- The FDA is reviewing abortion pill rules amid pressure from conservative lawmakers and activists.
- A separate case will hear arguments about restoring old limits on mail-order and pharmacy distribution of mifepristone.
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