Termination of mid-gestation pregnancy in bitches with aglepristone, a progesterone receptor antagonist

Six pregnancies were terminated in mid-gestation with aglépristone, a progesterone receptor antagonist, in 5 beagle bitches in order to determine the effects of aglépristone on plasma concentrations of prolactin and progesterone, the duration of the luteal phase, and the interestrous interval. In addition, the effects of aglépristone on the condition of the uterus and fetuses were examined by ultrasonography. After confirmation of pregnancy by ultrasonography, the dogs received 10 mg, s.c. aglépristone per kg body weight on 2 consecutive days at about 30 d post ovulation. Before, during and after treatment with aglépristone, plasma samples were collected for determination of the concentrations of prolactin and progesterone. The condition of the uterus and fetuses was assessed by ultrasonography the day before and at least 3 times a week for at least 2 wk after aglépristone administration. Termination of pregnancy occurred within 4 to 7 d after the start of aglépristone treatment, which was well tolerated, with no side-effects except slight vaginal discharge. The results of ultrasonographic examination indicated that aglépristone leads to abortion but not to fetal resorption. Elevated plasma concentrations of prolactin were observed during aglépristone treatment, while plasma progesterone levels remained unchanged. Pregnancy termination with aglépristone resulted in premature cessation of luteal function. In addition, the interestrous interval was shortened. The latter effects may be the consequence of actions of the progesterone receptor antagonist at the hypothalamus-pituitary level. In conclusion, aglépristone proved to be a safe and effective abortifacient in mid-gestation in the bitch. The results of the present study also indicated that aglépristone directly or indirectly influences pituitary function.