Related Experiment Videos
Medical abortion: overview and management
1University of Illinois College of Medicine, Urbana, USA.
Medscape Women'S Health
|April 20, 2002
Summary
Medical abortion using mifepristone and misoprostol is a safe and effective option. This FDA-approved regimen up to 49 days LMP requires provider monitoring for complications and confirmation of completion.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Medical abortion offers expanded choices for patients and providers.
- The US FDA approved mifepristone and misoprostol for medical abortion in 2000.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review medical abortion regimens, including FDA-approved protocols.
- To discuss management strategies, safety, and alternative options.
Main Methods:
- Review of the FDA-approved regimen of mifepristone (600 mg) and misoprostol (400 mcg).
- Protocol details: Day 1 mifepristone, Day 3 misoprostol, follow-up days 12-20.
- Confirmation methods include ultrasound or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels.
Main Results:
- Medical abortion induces luteolysis, uterine contractions, and expulsion without surgery.
- Pregnancy expulsion often occurs within hours of the second dose.
- Complications like hemorrhage occur in 2-10% of cases, requiring surgical intervention.
Conclusions:
- Medical abortion is a safe and effective alternative to surgical procedures.
- Physician awareness of state regulations and complication management is crucial.
- Alternative regimens, such as methotrexate, can also be used.