Comparison of single and multiple-dose methotrexate therapy for ectopic pregnancy: a clinical trail

Abstract: Introduction: Ectopic pregnancy (EP) is potentially life threatening condition. Methotrexate (MTX)is widely used in treatment of EP. The aim of current study is to compare single dose and multiple doses of MTX in treatment of EP. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial 78 patients with unruptured EP who were hemodynamically stable and had EP size less than 4 cm were enrolled in the study during 2008-2011. All patients were undergone transvaginal sonography and β-HCG titration. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups either to receive 50mg/m2 intramuscular Methotrexate(MTX)or 1mg/kg/day intramuscular MTX in days one, three, five and seven till β-HCG decreases at least 15%. Data were analysed using SPSS 20.0 software. Results: Baseline characteristics were similar in both groups. There was no significant difference between teo groups in treatment response.(P=0.255). β-HCG decreased percentage was significantly higher in single dose group in comparison with multiple dose group.(P=0.046). β-HCG decreased percentage wasn't significantly different in two groups. No difference was seen in two groups in drug side effect rate. Conclusion: Treatment of EP with single dose MTX is recommended because of lower costs and time needed.