California Lawsuit Over Abortion Pill Reversal Heads to Trial

California officials filed a lawsuit in September 2023 against Heartbeat International and RealOptions Obria Medical Clinics alleging false and misleading statements about abortion pill reversal. The complaint claims the organizations engaged in unlawful and unfair business practices by promoting the protocol.

The lawsuit seeks nearly $20 million in penalties. It states there is no evidence showing that mifepristone can be reversed or that the protocol contributes to the continuation of a pregnancy.

Background on the Protocol Abortion pill reversal uses the hormone progesterone, which has been prescribed during pregnancy since the 1950s and is FDA-approved. Heartbeat International reports that statistics show more than 8,000 lives have been saved following the protocol.

The Abortion Pill Reversal Network operates a 24/7 helpline and connects women to a network of over 1,300 providers, clinics, and hospitals. The service has been offered since 2012.

International has asked the court to find that the First Amendment protects their speech and women's rights to access information about all available options following a chemical abortion. General counsel Danielle White stated that a ruling in California's favor would provide attorneys general across the country a roadmap to penalize nonprofits.

The trial is set to begin June 24 in California Superior Court.