L. Slaughter, C. Ballard
1975
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Journal
Contraception
Abstract
This study examines the efficacy and side effects of 15-methyl-prostaglandins F2alpha (PGF2a) free acid administered intramuscularly for midtrimester abortion. 50 healthy women aged 14 to 37 years and between 12 to 18 weeks gestation were randomly selected from the abortion clinic at the Los Angeles County/USC Medical Center, Women's Hospital to participate in the study. The prostaglandin preparation was supplied in ampules containing 1.1 mg. in 2.2 ml. of aqueous solution. The injection was given every 2 hours until the fetus was expelled or for a maximum of 12 injections. Vital signs of the patients were closely monitored. 46% (23) of the subjects aborted within 12 hours and 90% within 27 hours. Mean injection-abortion time was 13.5 hours (range, 5 3/4 to 27 hours). The effectiveness and rapidity of abortion was related with gestational age: the lower the gestational age, the shorter the abortion time. Women with more than 17 weeks gestation had a higher failure rate. Mean number of injections was 7.5. 5 patients failed to abort with prostaglandin alone, all of them primigravidas and weighing in excess of 150 lbs; supplemental therapy was provided. Side effects and complications associated with 15-methyl-PGF2a included: emesis (66%); diarrhea (76%); flushing (12%); chills (4%); fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit (12%); pain requiring medication (16%); and blood loss (6%). The success of this method appears to be related to dosage; parity; gestational age; weight of patient; and frequency of administration. Although there were side effects, these were outweighed by rapid abortion time, mild contractions, and ease of administration. Asthma is the only medical contraindication to prostaglandin therapy.