Low-dose mifepristone followed by vaginal misoprostol at 48 hours for abortion up to 63 days.

ABSTRACT

PIP: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness, side effects, and acceptability of one-third the standard dose of mifepristone, i.e. 200 mg, and vaginal misoprostol 800 mcg to induce abortion in subjects 56 or fewer days pregnant with subjects 57-63 days pregnant. A prospective multicenter trial enrolled healthy women aged 18 years or older, 63 or fewer days pregnant, and wanting an abortion. Women received mifepristone 200 mg orally, followed by misoprostol 800 mcg vaginally, and returned 1-4 days later for ultrasound evaluation. A second dose of misoprostol was administered, if necessary. Surgical intervention was indicated for continuing pregnancy, excessive bleeding, or persistent products of conception 5 weeks later. Of 1137 subjects, 829 were in the 56 days or fewer pregnant group and 308 in the 57-63 days pregnant group. In all, 34 subjects had surgical intervention and 16 were lost to follow-up. Complete medical abortions occurred in 97% of subjects 56 or fewer days pregnant and 96% in the 57-63 days pregnant group. In all, 88% of subjects in the 56 days or fewer pregnant and 92% in the 57-63 days pregnant group bled within 4 hours of using vaginal misoprostol. Comparing subjects 56 or fewer days pregnant with 57-63 days pregnant, there was less diarrhea (20% vs. 29%, p = 0.0002) and vomiting (33% vs. 44%, p = 0.001), although side effects were acceptable to 82% of subjects in both groups. 1 subject in the 56 or fewer days group required a transfusion for delayed excessive bleeding. Although bleeding (p = 0.01) and pain (p = 0.02) were less acceptable in the 57-63 days group. 91% of subjects in both groups reported that the overall procedure was acceptable. In summary, low-dose mifepristone 200 mg and home administration of vaginal misoprostol 800 mcg at 48 hours were highly effective and acceptable to women 63 or fewer days pregnant, thereby expanding the number of women who can access a medical abortion.