Ulipristal acetate for uterine fibroid-related symptoms.

Uterine fibroids are the most common benign uterine tumors in women of reproductive age. Although most women are asymptomatic (80%), fibroids, according to their type and location, can cause several symptoms and impact quality of life. To date, no medical treatment is able to eliminate fibroids. Ulipristal acetate (UPA) is an orally active synthetic selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM) characterized by a tissue-specific progesterone antagonist effect that reduces the proliferation of leiomyoma cells and induces apoptosis. It was licensed in Europe for preoperative fibroid treatment in 2012. Its pharmacological and pharmacodynamic characteristics, its efficacy and good tolerance make UPA a new important tool in the management of uterine fibroids.