Comparison of efficacy and side effects of both single-dose and two-dose methotrexate therapy in ectopic pregnancy in patients referred to Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ahvaz

In this study we compared single dose with double dose of methotoxate (MTX) therapy for treatment of 76 patients with ectopic pregnancy referring to Imam Khomeini hospital of Ahvaz. Inclusion criteria were, healthy women with stable hemodynamic condition and BHCG less than 15000 mU/mL .Women who had a history of liver and kidney disease or blood dyscrasia, breastfed were excluded from the study. the sample size was calculated 76 patients (38 in each single or double dose group). In single dose group, 50mg/m2 methotrexate was administered in day 0, while in the double dose group; patients received two doses in day 0 and 4. BHCG of both groups were measured in 4th and 7th day of hospitalization. A 15% decrease in BHCG level considered as a successful treatment. . If the rupture of fallopian tube has happened, patient underwent the immediate surgery. The necessity of surgery was determined in both groups. Every woman remained hospitalized until their BHCG reached 200 mU/mL . Beside of BHCG level the duration of hospitalization also determined for single dose and double dose groups. The side effects of methotrexate, function of liver and kidney were checked in each participant one week after completion of treatment , If liver trans aminase increased 1.5 times more than normal, or creatinine increased to 1.5mg/dL, WBCs decreased to 2000 or platelets declined fewer than 100000, these were assumed as drug complications and compared between the two groups.

Ahwaz Jondishapur University of Medical Sciences