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Venetis CA, Storr A, Chua SJ, Mol BW, Longobardi S, Yin X, D’Hooghe T. What is the optimal GnRH antagonist protocol for ovarian stimulation during ART treatment? A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:307-326. [PMID: 36594696 PMCID: PMC10152179 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several GnRH antagonist protocols are currently used during COS in the context of ART treatments; however, questions remain regarding whether these protocols are comparable in terms of efficacy and safety. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A systematic review followed by a pairwise and network meta-analyses were performed. The systematic review and pairwise meta-analysis of direct comparative data according to the PRISMA guidelines evaluated the effectiveness of different GnRH antagonist protocols (fixed Day 5/6 versus flexible, ganirelix versus cetrorelix, with or without hormonal pretreatment) on the probability of live birth and ongoing pregnancy after COS during ART treatment. A frequentist network meta-analysis combining direct and indirect comparisons (using the long GnRH agonist protocol as the comparator) was also performed to enhance the precision of the estimates. SEARCH METHODS The systematic literature search was performed using Embase (Ovid), MEDLINE (Ovid), Cochrane Central Register of Trials (CENTRAL), SCOPUS and Web of Science (WOS), from inception until 23 November 2021. The search terms comprised three different MeSH terms that should be present in the identified studies: GnRH antagonist; assisted reproduction treatment; randomized controlled trial (RCT). Only studies published in English were included. OUTCOMES The search strategy resulted in 6738 individual publications, of which 102 were included in the systematic review (corresponding to 75 unique studies) and 73 were included in the meta-analysis. Most studies were of low quality. One study compared a flexible protocol with a fixed Day 5 protocol and the remaining RCTs with a fixed Day 6 protocol. There was a lack of data regarding live birth when comparing the flexible and fixed GnRH antagonist protocols or cetrorelix and ganirelix. No significant difference in live birth rate was observed between the different pretreatment regimens versus no pretreatment or between the different pretreatment protocols. A flexible GnRH antagonist protocol resulted in a significantly lower OPR compared with a fixed Day 5/6 protocol (relative risk (RR) 0.76, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.94, I2 = 0%; 6 RCTs; n = 907 participants; low certainty evidence). There were insufficient data for a comparison of cetrorelix and ganirelix for OPR. OCP pretreatment was associated with a lower OPR compared with no pretreatment intervention (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.69 to 0.92; I2 = 0%; 5 RCTs, n = 1318 participants; low certainty evidence). Furthermore, in the network meta-analysis, a fixed protocol with OCP resulted in a significantly lower OPR than a fixed protocol with no pretreatment (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.99; moderate quality evidence). The surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) scores suggested that the fixed protocol with no pretreatment is the antagonist protocol most likely (84%) to result in the highest OPR. There was insufficient evidence of a difference between fixed/flexible or OCP pretreatment/no pretreatment interventions regarding other outcomes, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and miscarriage rates. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Available evidence, mostly of low quality and certainty, suggests that different antagonist protocols should not be considered as equivalent for clinical decision-making. More trials are required to assess the comparative effectiveness of ganirelix versus cetrorelix, the effect of different pretreatment interventions (e.g. progestins or oestradiol) or the effect of different criteria for initiation of the antagonist in the flexible protocol. Furthermore, more studies are required examining the optimal GnRH antagonist protocol in women with high or low response to ovarian stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Venetis
- University of New South Wales, Faculty of Medicine & Health, Centre for Big Data Research in Health & Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sydney, Australia
- IVFAustralia, Alexandria, NSW, Australia
| | - A Storr
- Flinders Fertility, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - S J Chua
- Austin Health, Heidelberg, Australia
| | - B W Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - S Longobardi
- Global Clinical Development, Merck Serono S.p.A, Rome, Italy, an affiliate of Merck KGaA
| | - X Yin
- EMD Serono Inc., R&D Global Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Medical Writing, Billerica, MA, USA, an affiliate of Merck KGaA
| | - T D’Hooghe
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University Medical School, New Haven, CT, USA
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Şükür YE, Ulusoy CO, Özmen B, Sönmezer M, Berker B, Aytaç R, Atabekoğlu CS. Protocol shift from agonist to antagonist or vice versa after an unsuccessful intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycle on the same patient does not improve outcome. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2018; 57:417-420. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2018.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Dawood AS, Algergawy A, Elhalwagy A. Reduction of the cetrorelix dose in a multiple-dose antagonist protocol and its impact on pregnancy rate and affordability: A randomized controlled multicenter study. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2018; 44:232-238. [PMID: 29376021 PMCID: PMC5783921 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2017.44.4.232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine whether reducing the cetrorelix dose in the antagonist protocol to 0.125 mg had any deleterious effects on follicular development, the number and quality of retrieved oocytes, or the number of embryos, and to characterize its effects on the affordability of assisted reproductive technology. Methods This randomized controlled study was conducted at the Fertility Unit of Tanta Educational Hospital of Tanta University, the Egyptian Consultants' Fertility Center, and the Qurrat Aien Fertility Center, from January 1 to June 30, 2017. Patients' demographic data, stimulation protocol, costs, pregnancy rate, and complications were recorded. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups: group I (n=61) received 0.125 mg of cetrorelix (the study group), and group II (n=62) received 0.25 mg of cetrorelix (the control group). Results The demographic data were comparable regarding age, parity, duration of infertility, and body mass index. The dose of recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone units required was 2,350.43±150.76 IU in group I and 2,366.25±140.34 IU in group II, which was not a significant difference (p=0.548). The duration of stimulation, number of retrieved oocytes, and number of developed embryos were not significantly different between the groups. The clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates likewise did not significantly differ. The cost of intracytoplasmic sperm injection per cycle was significantly lower in group I than in group II (US $494.66±4.079 vs. US $649.677±43.637). Conclusion Reduction of the cetrorelix dose in the antagonist protocol was not associated with any significant difference either in the number of oocytes retrieved or in the pregnancy rate. Moreover, it was more economically feasible for patients in a low-resource country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman S Dawood
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Adel Algergawy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Elhalwagy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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Lambalk CB, Banga FR, Huirne JA, Toftager M, Pinborg A, Homburg R, van der Veen F, van Wely M. GnRH antagonist versus long agonist protocols in IVF: a systematic review and meta-analysis accounting for patient type. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 23:560-579. [PMID: 28903472 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most reviews of IVF ovarian stimulation protocols have insufficiently accounted for various patient populations, such as ovulatory women, women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or women with poor ovarian response, and have included studies in which the agonist or antagonist was not the only variable between the compared study arms. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of the current study was to compare GnRH antagonist protocols versus standard long agonist protocols in couples undergoing IVF or ICSI, while accounting for various patient populations and treatment schedules. SEARCH METHODS The Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Review Group specialized register of controlled trials and Pubmed and Embase databases were searched from inception until June 2016. Eligible trials were those that compared GnRH antagonist protocols and standard long GnRH agonist protocols in couples undergoing IVF or ICSI. The primary outcome was ongoing pregnancy rate. Secondary outcomes were: live birth rate, clinical pregnancy rate, number of oocytes retrieved and safety with regard to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Separate comparisons were performed for the general IVF population, women with PCOS and women with poor ovarian response. Pre-planned subgroup analyses were performed for various antagonist treatment schedules. OUTCOMES We included 50 studies. Of these, 34 studies reported on general IVF patients, 10 studies reported on PCOS patients and 6 studies reported on poor responders. In general IVF patients, ongoing pregnancy rate was significantly lower in the antagonist group compared with the agonist group (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.82-0.96). In women with PCOS and in women with poor ovarian response, there was no evidence of a difference in ongoing pregnancy between the antagonist and agonist groups (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.84-1.11 and RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.65-1.17, respectively). Subgroup analyses for various antagonist treatment schedules compared to the long protocol GnRH agonist showed a significantly lower ongoing pregnancy rate when the oral hormonal programming pill (OHP) pretreatment was combined with a flexible protocol (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.59-0.91) while without OHP, the RR was 0.84, 95% CI 0.71-1.0. Subgroup analysis for the fixed antagonist schedule demonstrated no evidence of a significant difference with or without OHP (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.79-1.12 and RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.83-1.05, respectively). Antagonists resulted in significantly lower OHSS rates both in the general IVF patients and in women with PCOS (RR 0.63, 95% CI 0.50-0.81 and RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.30-0.95, respectively). No data on OHSS was available from trials in poor responders. WIDER IMPLICATIONS In a general IVF population, GnRH antagonists are associated with lower ongoing pregnancy rates when compared to long protocol agonists, but also with lower OHSS rates. Within this population, antagonist treatment prevents one case of OHSS in 40 patients but results in one less ongoing pregnancy out of every 28 women treated. Thus standard use of the long GnRH agonist treatment is perhaps still the approach of choice for prevention of premature luteinization. In couples with PCOS and poor responders, GnRH antagonists do not seem to compromise ongoing pregnancy rates and are associated with less OHSS and therefore could be considered as standard treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- C B Lambalk
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, VU University medical centre (VUmc), PO Box 7075, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - F R Banga
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, VU University medical centre (VUmc), PO Box 7075, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - J A Huirne
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, VU University medical centre (VUmc), PO Box 7075, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M Toftager
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fertility Clinic Section 455, Hvidovre University Hospital, Kettegård Alle 30, Hvidovre, Copenhagen 2650, Denmark
| | - A Pinborg
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fertility Clinic Section 455, Hvidovre University Hospital, Kettegård Alle 30, Hvidovre, Copenhagen 2650, Denmark
| | - R Homburg
- Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Homerton Row, Hackney, London E9 6SR, UK
| | - F van der Veen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 227000, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M van Wely
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 227000, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Kolibianakis EM, Griesinger G, Venetis CA. GnRH antagonists vs. long GnRH agonists in IVF: significant flaws in a meta-analysis lead to invalid conclusions. Hum Reprod Update 2017; 24:242-243. [PMID: 29300885 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Efstratios M Kolibianakis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Ring Road, N. Efkarpia, 54629 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georg Griesinger
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Christos A Venetis
- Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, University of New South Wales, Royal Hospital for Women, Level 1, Barker Str, Randwick NSW 2031, Australia
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van Tilborg TC, Torrance HL, Oudshoorn SC, Eijkemans MJC, Koks CAM, Verhoeve HR, Nap AW, Scheffer GJ, Manger AP, Schoot BC, Sluijmer AV, Verhoeff A, Groen H, Laven JSE, Mol BWJ, Broekmans FJM, van Tilborg TC, Oudshoorn SC, Eijkemans MJC, Mochtar MH, Koks CAM, van Golde RJT, Verhoeve HR, Nap AW, Scheffer GJ, Manger AP, Hoek A, Schoot BC, Oosterhuis GJE, Kuchenbecker WKH, Fleischer K, de Bruin JP, Sluijmer AV, Friederich J, Verhoeff A, van Hooff MHA, van Santbrink EJP, Brinkhuis EA, Smeenk JMJ, Kwee J, de Koning CH, Groen H, van Wely M, Lambalk CB, Laven JSE, Mol BWJ, Broekmans FJM, Torrance HL. Individualized versus standard FSH dosing in women starting IVF/ICSI: an RCT. Part 1: The predicted poor responder. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:2496-2505. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Theodora C van Tilborg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, PO Box 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Helen L Torrance
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, PO Box 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Simone C Oudshoorn
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, PO Box 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marinus J C Eijkemans
- Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, PO Box 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Carolien A M Koks
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maxima Medical Centre Veldhoven, PO Box 7777, 5500 MB Veldhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Harold R Verhoeve
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis Oost, PO Box 95500, 1190 HM Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemiek W Nap
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Rijnstate Hospital, PO Box 9555, 6800 TA Arnhem, The Netherlands
| | - Gabrielle J Scheffer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gelre Hospital, PO Box 9014, 7300 DS Apeldoorn, The Netherlands
| | - A Petra Manger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Diakonessenhuis, PO Box 80250, 3508 TG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Benedictus C Schoot
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Catharina Ziekenhuis, PO Box 1350, 5602 ZA Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Gent, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Alexander V Sluijmer
- Department of Gynaecology, Wilhelmina Hospital, PO Box 30001, 9400 RA Assen, The Netherlands
| | - Arie Verhoeff
- Department of Gynaecology, Maasstad Hospital, PO Box 9100, 3007 AC Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henk Groen
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Postbus 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ben Willem J Mol
- The Robinson Research Institute, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, SA 5006 Adelaide, Australia
- The South Australian Health and Medical Research Unit, PO Box 11060, SA 5001 Adelaide, Australia
| | - Frank J M Broekmans
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, PO Box 85500, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Zhai XH, Zhang P, Wu FX, Wang AC, Liu PS. GnRH antagonist for patients with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer in fresh cycles. Exp Ther Med 2017; 13:3097-3102. [PMID: 28587385 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2017.4309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist compared with a GnRH agonist on the in vitro fertilization cycle outcome in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. The outcomes of pregnancy were evaluated. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was also used to evaluate whether the endometrial thickness (cm) and estradiol (E2) level (pg/ml) on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration (the hCG day) had the best sensitivity and specificity for predicting a clinical pregnancy. The results demonstrated that there were significant differences in the E2 and progesterone levels between the two treatment groups on the hCG day. Furthermore, the mean number of total oocytes retrieved, mean number of 2 pronuclei oocytes, mean number of oocytes cleaved (P<0.05), mean number of embryos available (P=0.022) and mean number of embryos transferred (P=0.014) were significantly different. Additionally, the rates of ectopic pregnancy (P=0.984) and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (P=0.976) did not differ significantly between the treatment groups. Although the biochemical pregnancy (P=0.592), clinical pregnancy (P=0.617) and live birth (P=0.365) rates were lower with the GnRH antagonist than with the GnRH agonist, there were no significant differences in the outcomes between the two groups. Analysis of the influence of endometrial thickness with respect to the clinical pregnancy using the ROC (AUC) method revealed that when the best cutoff of 9.75 cm was used, the sensitivity was 62.5%, the specificity was 43.1% and the AUC was 0.53. Additionally, the Youden index was 0.056. Analysis of the influence of the E2 level on the hCG day on clinical pregnancy, using the ROC (AUC) method showed that the best cutoff was 2,984.5 pg/ml, which had a sensitivity of 68.8% and specificity of 52.9%, while the AUC was 0.573 (with a Youden index of 0.217). Furthermore, the results demonstrated that neither the endometrial thickness nor the E2 level on the hCG day had the best sensitivity and specificity for predicting a clinical pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Hong Zhai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linyi Health School, Linyi, Shandong 276003, P.R. China.,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong 276003, P.R. China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong 276003, P.R. China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong 276003, P.R. China
| | - Feng-Xia Wu
- Department of Anatomy, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - An-Cong Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong 276003, P.R. China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, Shandong 276003, P.R. China
| | - Pei-Shu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
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Al‐Inany HG, Youssef MA, Ayeleke RO, Brown J, Lam WS, Broekmans FJ. Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonists for assisted reproductive technology. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016; 4:CD001750. [PMID: 27126581 PMCID: PMC8626739 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001750.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists can be used to prevent a luteinizing hormone (LH) surge during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) without the hypo-oestrogenic side-effects, flare-up, or long down-regulation period associated with agonists. The antagonists directly and rapidly inhibit gonadotrophin release within several hours through competitive binding to pituitary GnRH receptors. This property allows their use at any time during the follicular phase. Several different regimens have been described including multiple-dose fixed (0.25 mg daily from day six to seven of stimulation), multiple-dose flexible (0.25 mg daily when leading follicle is 14 to 15 mm), and single-dose (single administration of 3 mg on day 7 to 8 of stimulation) protocols, with or without the addition of an oral contraceptive pill. Further, women receiving antagonists have been shown to have a lower incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Assuming comparable clinical outcomes for the antagonist and agonist protocols, these benefits would justify a change from the standard long agonist protocol to antagonist regimens. This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2001, and previously updated in 2006 and 2011. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists compared with the standard long protocol of GnRH agonists for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in assisted conception cycles. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group Trials Register (searched from inception to May 2015), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library, inception to 28 April 2015), Ovid MEDLINE (1966 to 28 April 2015), EMBASE (1980 to 28 April 2015), PsycINFO (1806 to 28 April 2015), CINAHL (to 28 April 2015) and trial registers to 28 April 2015, and handsearched bibliographies of relevant publications and reviews, and abstracts of major scientific meetings, for example the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) and American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). We contacted the authors of eligible studies for missing or unpublished data. The evidence is current to 28 April 2015. SELECTION CRITERIA Two review authors independently screened the relevant citations for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing different GnRH agonist versus GnRH antagonist protocols in women undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed trial eligibility and risk of bias, and extracted the data. The primary review outcomes were live birth and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Other adverse effects (miscarriage and cycle cancellation) were secondary outcomes. We combined data to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I(2) statistic. We assessed the overall quality of the evidence for each comparison using GRADE methods. MAIN RESULTS We included 73 RCTs, with 12,212 participants, comparing GnRH antagonist to long-course GnRH agonist protocols. The quality of the evidence was moderate: limitations were poor reporting of study methods.Live birthThere was no conclusive evidence of a difference in live birth rate between GnRH antagonist and long course GnRH agonist (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.23; 12 RCTs, n = 2303, I(2)= 27%, moderate quality evidence). The evidence suggested that if the chance of live birth following GnRH agonist is assumed to be 29%, the chance following GnRH antagonist would be between 25% and 33%.OHSSGnRH antagonist was associated with lower incidence of any grade of OHSS than GnRH agonist (OR 0.61, 95% C 0.51 to 0.72; 36 RCTs, n = 7944, I(2) = 31%, moderate quality evidence). The evidence suggested that if the risk of OHSS following GnRH agonist is assumed to be 11%, the risk following GnRH antagonist would be between 6% and 9%.Other adverse effectsThere was no evidence of a difference in miscarriage rate per woman randomised between GnRH antagonist group and GnRH agonist group (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.30; 33 RCTs, n = 7022, I(2) = 0%, moderate quality evidence).With respect to cycle cancellation, GnRH antagonist was associated with a lower incidence of cycle cancellation due to high risk of OHSS (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.69; 19 RCTs, n = 4256, I(2) = 0%). However cycle cancellation due to poor ovarian response was higher in women who received GnRH antagonist than those who were treated with GnRH agonist (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.65; 25 RCTs, n = 5230, I(2) = 68%; moderate quality evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is moderate quality evidence that the use of GnRH antagonist compared with long-course GnRH agonist protocols is associated with a substantial reduction in OHSS without reducing the likelihood of achieving live birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham G Al‐Inany
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo UniversityDepartment of Obstetrics & Gynaecology8 Moustapha Hassanin StManialCairoEgypt
| | - Mohamed A Youssef
- Faculty of Medicine, Cairo UniversityDepartment of Obstetrics & Gynaecology8 Moustapha Hassanin StManialCairoEgypt
| | - Reuben Olugbenga Ayeleke
- University of AucklandDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyPrivate Bag 92019AucklandNew Zealand
| | - Julie Brown
- The University of AucklandLiggins InstitutePark RdGraftonAucklandNew Zealand1142
| | - Wai Sun Lam
- University of AucklandDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyPrivate Bag 92019AucklandNew Zealand
| | - Frank J Broekmans
- University Medical CenterDepartment of Reproductive Medicine and GynecologyUtrechtNetherlands
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Estradiol Valerate Pretreatment in Short Protocol GnRH-Agonist Cycles versus Combined Pretreatment with Oral Contraceptive Pills in Long Protocol GnRH-Agonist Cycles: A Randomised Controlled Trial. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:628056. [PMID: 25922838 PMCID: PMC4398924 DOI: 10.1155/2015/628056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The strategy of in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures relies on the increasing pregnancy rate and decreasing the risk of premature ovulation and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. They are also designed to avoid weekend oocyte retrievals. Combined oral contraceptive (OC) pills are among the medicines used to accomplish these objectives. Alternatively, estradiol can be used instead of OC to obtain similar results. The aim of our study was to compare the differences in pregnancy rates (PRs), implantation rates, and miscarriage rates between a short agonist protocol with estradiol priming and a long protocol with combined OC. Of the 298 women who participated in this study, 134 achieved clinical pregnancies (45.0%). A higher PR (58.4%, n = 80, compared to 40.3%, n = 54) was achieved in the long protocol after OC pretreatment group. The implantation rate was also higher for this group (37.8% versus 28.0%; P = 0.03). The miscarriage rate was 15.0% (n = 12) for the long protocol after OC pretreatment group and 20.4% (n = 11) for the short agonist group (P = 0.81). The short agonist protocol required a 5.7% lower human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) dosage than the long protocol but surprisingly the number of oocytes retrieved was also smaller.
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Xu HJ, Ji XW, Hong Y, Zhu QL, Zhao XM, Sun Y. Mini-dose GnRH-a long versus short protocol in patients ≥ 35 years old undergoing in vitro fertilization. Gynecol Endocrinol 2014; 30:498-501. [PMID: 24693851 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2014.906570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the clinical result of mini-dose GnRH-a long protocol with short protocol in older patients undergoing IVF. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a retrospective study. Four hundred and sixty-one women aged above 35-year-old in first cycle were assigned to two groups: GnRH-a short protocol (n=359); and mini-dose GnRH-a long protocol (n=102). Both groups were divided based on their age, into groups over and under 38 years old. Primary outcome include live birth rate per started cycle. Other clinical outcomes were good-quality embryo rate, clinical pregnancy rate. RESULTS Patients treated with mini-dose GnRH-a protocol and those treated with short protocol showed similar live birth rate. In the mini-dose long protocol group aged 35-38 years old, patients showed significantly thicker endometrium at the day of hCG administration, higher number of good embryos obtained and higher good-quality embryo rate (56.3% versus 46.5%) compared with short protocol. The implantation rate and clinical pregnancy rate were higher versus short protocol group, but this result was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION(S) Mini-dose GnRH-a long protocol for older women is at least as effective as short protocol, especially in patients aged 35-38 years, with a better good-quality embryo rate and higher number of good embryos obtained, therefore mini-dose GnRH-a long protocol can be considered as an alternative protocol for patients above 35 years age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Jing Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University , Shanghai , China and
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11
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Maldonado LGL, Franco JG, Setti AS, Iaconelli A, Borges E. Cost-effectiveness comparison between pituitary down-regulation with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist short regimen on alternate days and an antagonist protocol for assisted fertilization treatments. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:1615-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.01.095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2012] [Revised: 01/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Kato Y, Nagao Y. Effect of polyvinylpyrrolidone on sperm function and early embryonic development following intracytoplasmic sperm injection in human assisted reproduction. Reprod Med Biol 2012; 11:165-176. [PMID: 23483084 PMCID: PMC3588556 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-012-0126-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2011] [Accepted: 03/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective here was to review the effects of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) upon sperm function and embryonic development in humans. PVP has been used successfully in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) to facilitate the handling and immobilization of sperm for both domestic animals and humans. In our previous reports, PVP solution exists locally in embryos injected during the early developmental period, and also exerts influence over the developmental capacity of such embryos. In other reports, PVP causes significant damage to sperm membranes that can be detected by transmission electron microscopy, and has been associated with chromosomal abnormalities in pregnancy derived from ICSI embryos. In some Japanese clinics, PVP-free media has been used for sperm immobilization in order to optimise safety. Consequently, it is strongly suggested that the success rate of fertilization and clinical pregnancy could be improved by using PVP-free solution for human ICSI. In conclusion, our interpretation of the available data is to perform ICSI without PVP or select a lower concentration of PVP solution in order to reduce safety for pregnancy and children born via ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoku Kato
- Department of Animal Production Science, United Graduate School of Agricultural ScienceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology183‐8509FuchuJapan
- University Farm, Faculty of AgricultureUtsunomiya UniversityShimokomoriya 443321‐4415MohkaTochigiJapan
| | - Yoshikazu Nagao
- Department of Animal Production Science, United Graduate School of Agricultural ScienceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology183‐8509FuchuJapan
- University Farm, Faculty of AgricultureUtsunomiya UniversityShimokomoriya 443321‐4415MohkaTochigiJapan
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13
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Cota AMM, Oliveira JBA, Petersen CG, Mauri AL, Massaro FC, Silva LFI, Nicoletti A, Cavagna M, Baruffi RLR, Franco JG. GnRH agonist versus GnRH antagonist in assisted reproduction cycles: oocyte morphology. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2012; 10:33. [PMID: 22540993 PMCID: PMC3464873 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-10-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2012] [Accepted: 04/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The selection of developmentally competent human gametes may increase the efficiency of assisted reproduction. Spermatozoa and oocytes are usually assessed according to morphological criteria. Oocyte morphology can be affected by the age, genetic characteristics, and factors related to controlled ovarian stimulation. However, there is a lack of evidence in the literature concerning the effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues, either agonists or antagonists, on oocyte morphology. The aim of this randomized study was to investigate whether the prevalence of oocyte dysmorphism is influenced by the type of pituitary suppression used in ovarian stimulation. METHODS A total of 64 patients in the first intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycle were prospectively randomized to receive treatment with either a GnRH agonist with a long-term protocol (n: 32) or a GnRH antagonist with a multi-dose protocol (n: 32). Before being subjected to ICSI, the oocytes at metaphase II from both groups were morphologically analyzed under an inverted light microscope at 400x magnification. The oocytes were classified as follows: normal or with cytoplasmic dysmorphism, extracytoplasmic dysmorphism, or both. The number of dysmorphic oocytes per total number of oocytes was analyzed. RESULTS Out of a total of 681 oocytes, 189 (27.8%) were morphologically normal, 220 (32.3%) showed cytoplasmic dysmorphism, 124 (18.2%) showed extracytoplasmic alterations, and 148 (21.7%) exhibited both types of dysmorphism. No significant difference in oocyte dysmorphism was observed between the agonist- and antagonist-treated groups (P>0.05). Analysis for each dysmorphism revealed that the most common conditions were alterations in polar body shape (31.3%) and the presence of diffuse cytoplasmic granulations (22.8%), refractile bodies (18.5%) and central cytoplasmic granulations (13.6%). There was no significant difference among individual oocyte dysmorphisms in the agonist- and antagonist-treated groups (P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our randomized data indicate that in terms of the quality of oocyte morphology, there is no difference between the antagonist multi-dose protocol and the long-term agonist protocol. If a GnRH analogue used for pituitary suppression in IVF cycles influences the prevalence of oocyte dysmorphisms, there does not appear to be a difference between the use of an agonist as opposed to an antagonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Marcia M Cota
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University—UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Joao Batista A Oliveira
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University—UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis, Research and Training, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Claudia G Petersen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University—UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis, Research and Training, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Ana L Mauri
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis, Research and Training, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Fabiana C Massaro
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis, Research and Training, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Liliane FI Silva
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University—UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis, Research and Training, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Andreia Nicoletti
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Mario Cavagna
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis, Research and Training, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
- Women’s Health Reference Center, Perola Byington Hospital, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo LR Baruffi
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis, Research and Training, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - José G Franco
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University—UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis, Research and Training, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
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Al-Inany HG, Youssef MA, Aboulghar M, Broekmans F, Sterrenburg M, Smit J, Abou-Setta AM. Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonists for assisted reproductive technology. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2011:CD001750. [PMID: 21563131 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001750.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists can be used to prevent a luteinizing hormone (LH) surge during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) without the hypo-estrogenic side-effects, flare-up, or long down-regulation period associated with agonists. The antagonists directly and rapidly inhibit gonadotropin release within several hours through competitive binding to pituitary GnRH receptors. This property allows their use at any time during the follicular phase. Several different regimes have been described including multiple-dose fixed (0.25 mg daily from day six to seven of stimulation), multiple-dose flexible (0.25 mg daily when leading follicle is 14 to 15 mm), and single-dose (single administration of 3 mg on day 7 to 8 of stimulation) protocols, with or without the addition of an oral contraceptive pill. Further, women receiving antagonists have been shown to have a lower incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Assuming comparable clinical outcomes for the antagonist and agonist protocols, these benefits would justify a change from the standard long agonist protocol to antagonist regimens. This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2001, and previously updated in 2006. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists with the standard long protocol of GnRH agonists for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in assisted conception cycle SEARCH STRATEGY We performed electronic searches of major databases, for example Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE (from 1987 to April 2010); and handsearched bibliographies of relevant publications and reviews, and abstracts of major scientific meetings, for example the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) and American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). A date limited search of Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL from April 2010 to April 2011 was run. Eighteen studies have been entered into the Classification pending references section of this update. These studies will be appraised for inclusion or exclusion in the next update of this review, due April 2012. SELECTION CRITERIA Two review authors independently screened the relevant citations for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing different agonist versus antagonist protocols in women undergoing IVF or ICSI. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed trial risk of bias and extracted data. If relevant data were missing or unclear, the authors were contacted for clarification. MAIN RESULTS Forty-five RCTs (n = 7511) comparing the antagonist to the long agonist protocols fulfilled the inclusion criteria. There was no evidence of a statistically significant difference in rates of live-births (9 RCTs; odds ratio (OR) 0.86, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.08) or ongoing pregnancy (28 RCTs; OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.00). There was a statistically significant lower incidence of OHSS in the GnRH antagonist group (29 RCTs; OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.57). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The use of antagonist compared with long GnRH agonist protocols was associated with a large reduction in OHSS and there was no evidence of a difference in live-birth rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham G Al-Inany
- Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, 8 Moustapha Hassanin St, Manial, Cairo, Egypt
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Hosseini MA, Aleyasin A, Saeedi H, Mahdavi A. Comparison of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and antagonists in assisted reproduction cycles of polycystic ovarian syndrome patients. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2010; 36:605-10. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0756.2010.01247.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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