Medical therapy for ectopic pregnancy.
Methotrexate for treatment of ectopic tubal pregnancy has become an accepted alternative to surgical options. Methotrexate is a folic acid analog that interferes with DNA synthesis. Protocols using planned multiple doses of methotrexate alternating with citrovorum rescue factor and one protocol using only a single planned dose are both currently used in the treatment of ectopic pregnancy. In remains unclear which protocol is superior. This article reviews the indications, contraindications, and specifics of using methotrexate for this purpose. Also reviewed are predictors of success and management of usual complications associated with methotrexate therapy.
Lipscomb
Gary H
GH
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, USA. glipscomb@utmem.edu
D000020:Abortifacient Agents, Nonsteroidal / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008727:Methotrexate / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011271:Pregnancy, Ectopic / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000601:surgery
D000020:Abortifacient Agents, Nonsteroidal; D008727:Methotrexate