Treatment of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome using gonadotropin releasing hormone antagonist: a pilot study

This novel study describes an effective outpatient treatment for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) that results in rapid normalization of symptoms.

A total of twenty-seven infertile women undergoing assisted reproductive technique with early-onset OHSS were enrolled in this non-randomized clinical trial in an academic infertility center. In all patients, after complete desensitization with long-term protocol ovarian stimulation with gonadotropins was commenced. Final oocyte maturation was triggered with human chorionic gonadotrophin. Oocytes were collected 36-38 h later using transvaginal-guided follicle aspiration under general anaesthesia. All embryos were frozen and study group patients received two consecutive doses of GnRH antagonist (Cetrotide) and the control group received daily dose of cabergoline for a week.

The research revealed that moderate and severe OHSS, hospitalization or acute care for OHSS and ascites tap were significantly lower in the antagonist (Cetrotide) group. The Patients' satisfaction with Cetrotide was noticeable. No side effect was reported in either group.

GnRH antagonists seem to be an effective outpatient treatment with rapid onset activity and minimal side effects for the management of early OHSS.