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de Lange ME, Semmler A, Clark TJ, Mol BWJ, Bet PM, Huirne JAF, Hehenkamp WJK. Considerations on implementation of the newest treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids: Oral GnRH antagonists. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2024; 90:392-405. [PMID: 37653680 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.15897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Novel gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist treatments have recently been developed in combination with hormonal add-back therapy, as an oral treatment option for women suffering from uterine fibroids. Registration trials assessing the GnRH antagonist combination preparations with relugolix, elagolix and linzagolix have assessed treatment efficacy for fibroid-related heavy menstrual blood loss in comparison to placebo. Marketing authorization has been granted by several agencies including those in Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States. While the registration trials report a robust effect on the reduction of heavy menstrual blood loss and improvement in quality of life scores, reticence is advised before widespread prescription. In this review, we demonstrate limitations in the trial data, namely a lack of generalizability due to the restricted study population, the lack of transparency in the distribution of disease-level characteristics limiting the predictability of treatment success in the real-world diverse population, and the absence of any comparison to current alternative treatment methods. Importantly, no clinically meaningful volume reductions were found with GnRH antagonist combination preparations, and long-term safety data, particularly concerning modest but stable bone mineral density decline, need further addressing. Symptoms related to uterine fibroids adversely affect many women's quality of life and effective medical treatments are lacking. However, despite the urgent need for conservative treatments, it is vitally important that novel drugs, like combination oral GnRH antagonists, undergo sufficiently rigorous evaluation of safety, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in a representative population and are compared with alternative treatment methods before introduction into mainstream clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria E de Lange
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annika Semmler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universteit MC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - T Justin Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Birmingham Women's and Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ben Willem J Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Pierre M Bet
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Judith A F Huirne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universteit MC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter J K Hehenkamp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universteit MC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Ali M, Ciebiera M, Wlodarczyk M, Alkhrait S, Maajid E, Yang Q, Hsia SM, Al-Hendy A. Current and Emerging Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids. Drugs 2023; 83:1649-1675. [PMID: 37922098 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01958-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the most common benign neoplasm of the female reproductive tract in reproductive age women. Their prevalence is age dependent and can be detected in up to 80% of women by the age of 50 years. Patients affected by uterine fibroids may experience a significant physical, emotional, social, and financial toll as well as losses in their quality of life. Unfortunately, curative hysterectomy abolishes future pregnancy potential, while uterine-sparing surgical and radiologic alternatives are variously associated with reduced long-term reproductive function and/or high tumor recurrence rates. Recently, pharmacological treatment against uterine fibroids have been widely considered by patients to limit uterine fibroid-associated symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding. This hormonal therapy seemed effective through blocking the stimulatory effects of gonadal steroid hormones on uterine fibroid growth. However, they are contraindicated in women actively pursuing pregnancy and otherwise effective only during use, which is limited because of long-term safety and other concerns. Accordingly, there is an urgent unmet need for safe, durable, and fertility-compatible non-surgical treatment options for uterine fibroids. In this review article, we cover the current pharmacological treatments for uterine fibroids including their comparable efficacy and side effects as well as emerging safe natural compounds with promising anti-uterine fibroid effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
| | - Michał Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, 00-189, Poland
| | - Marta Wlodarczyk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
- Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Samar Alkhrait
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Elise Maajid
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Shih-Min Hsia
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
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Sim-Ifere O, Aref-Adib M, Odejinmi F. Oral gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists: the continuing search for the ideal nonsurgical therapy of uterine fibroids with a cautionary tale. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2023; 35:460-465. [PMID: 37560806 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Uterine fibroids are very common with a prevalence of over 70%. They present a significant economic and psychological burden. A variety of nonsurgical treatments exist for its management encompassing hormonal and nonhormonal methods. Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists are a novel treatment for uterine fibroids. They cause a rapid reduction in endogenous GnRH, leading to a dose-dependent reduction in levels of oestradiol and progesterone, thus reduction in bleeding. The addition of hormones, estrogen, and progesterone, known as add-back therapy, helps curb the menopausal side effects. As such, they pose a potential long-term nonsurgical therapy for management of symptomatic fibroids. RECENT FINDINGS There are various uses of GnRH antagonists and the results from the clinical trials are promising. Caution needs to be taken when new treatment options are introduced with audit and data collection tools in place to assess effectiveness as well as any side effects. SUMMARY This article highlights the uses of GnRH antagonists in practice and reflects on previous novel treatments for fibroids with a focus on Ulipristal acetate. It states the importance of using audit tools and multiinstitutional databases to prevent and allow early discovery of issues such as those that encumbered Ulipristal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Funlayo Odejinmi
- Whipps cross university hospital Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
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Mikuš M, Šprem Goldštajn M, Laganà AS, Vukorepa F, Ćorić M. Clinical Efficacy, Pharmacokinetics, and Safety of the Available Medical Options in the Treatment of Endometriosis-Related Pelvic Pain: A Scoping Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1315. [PMID: 37765123 PMCID: PMC10537015 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this scoping review, we sought to identify published studies evaluating the drugs currently used in the treatment of endometriosis-related pelvic pain, with reflection on their chemical properties, pharmacokinetics, safety profile, and clinical efficacy. METHODS A literature search was conducted with the use of the PubMed and EMBASE electronic databases, focusing on identifying articles published in English between January 1990 and 2023. RESULTS Based on the included studies, current therapy options for the treatment of endometriosis-related pain identified and reviewed in this article were: (1) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; (2) combined oral contraceptive (COCs); (3) progestins; (4) gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and antagonists; (5) aromatase inhibitors (AIs); (6) selective estrogen and progesterone receptor modulators; and (7) levonorgestrel-intrauterine device. CONCLUSIONS Based on the published evidence, clinicians should consider NSAIDs, COCs, and progestins as the first-line medical therapies. Compared with second-line options, such as GnRH agonists/antagonists or AIs, the abovementioned first-line options are well tolerated, efficacious, and exhibit lower overall price. Future research priorities should be to identify novel target therapies and to evaluate the effects of available drugs through different routes of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mislav Mikuš
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.Š.G.); (F.V.); (M.Ć.)
| | - Marina Šprem Goldštajn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.Š.G.); (F.V.); (M.Ć.)
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Paolo Giaccone” Hospital, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Franka Vukorepa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.Š.G.); (F.V.); (M.Ć.)
| | - Mario Ćorić
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia; (M.Š.G.); (F.V.); (M.Ć.)
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Whitaker LH, Middleton LJ, Daniels JP, Williams AR, Priest L, Odedra S, Cheed V, Stubbs CE, Clark TJ, Lumsden MA, Hapangama DK, Bhattacharya S, Smith PP, Nicholls EP, Roberts N, Semple SI, Saraswat L, Walker J, Chodankar RR, Critchley HO. Ulipristal acetate versus levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system for heavy menstrual bleeding (UCON): a randomised controlled phase III trial. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 60:101995. [PMID: 37251622 PMCID: PMC10209678 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.101995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Heavy menstrual bleeding affects one in four women and negatively impacts quality of life. Ulipristal acetate is prescribed to treat symptoms associated with uterine fibroids. We compared the effectiveness of ulipristal acetate and the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system at reducing the burden of heavy menstrual bleeding, irrespective of the presence of fibroids. Methods This randomised, open-label, parallel group phase III trial enrolled women over 18 years with heavy menstrual bleeding from 10 UK hospitals. Participants were centrally randomised, in a 1:1 ratio, to either three, 12-week treatment cycles of 5 mg ulipristal acetate daily, separated by 4-week treatment-free intervals, or a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system. The primary outcome, analysed by intention-to-treat, was quality of life measured by the Menorrhagia Multi-Attribute Scale at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included menstrual bleeding and liver function. The trial is registered with ISRCTN, 20426843. Findings Between June 5th, 2015 and February 26th, 2020, 236 women were randomised, either side of a recruitment suspension due to concerns of ulipristal acetate hepatoxicity. Subsequent withdrawal of ulipristal acetate led to early cessation of recruitment but the trial continued in follow-up. The primary outcome substantially improved in both groups, and was 89, (interquartile range [IQR] 65 to 100, n = 53) and 94, (IQR 70 to 100, n = 50; adjusted odds ratio 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.26-1.17; p = 0.12) in the ulipristal and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system groups. Rates of amenorrhoea at 12 months were higher in those allocated ulipristal acetate compared to levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (64% versus 25%, adjusted odds ratio 7.12, 95% CI 2.29-22.2). Other outcomes were similar between the two groups and there were no cases of endometrial malignancy or hepatotoxicity due to ulipristal acetate use. Interpretation Our findings suggested that both treatments improved quality of life. Ulipristal was more effective at inducing amenorrhoea. Ulipristal has been demonstrated to be an effective medical therapeutic option but currently its use has restrictions and requires liver function monitoring. Funding UK Medical Research Council and National Institute of Health Research EME Programme (12/206/52).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy H.R. Whitaker
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Lee J. Middleton
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jane P. Daniels
- Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Lee Priest
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Smita Odedra
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Versha Cheed
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Clive E. Stubbs
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Mary-Ann Lumsden
- Reproductive & Maternal Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Dharani K. Hapangama
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Paul P. Smith
- Birmingham Women's and Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Neil Roberts
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Scott I. Semple
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Jane Walker
- Department of Clinical Radiology, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Rohan R. Chodankar
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - UCON Collaborative
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Division of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Birmingham Women's and Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
- Reproductive & Maternal Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
- Adcal H.R. Consultancy, UK (PPI representative)
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Department of Clinical Radiology, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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6
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Holdsworth-Carson SJ, Menkhorst E, Maybin JA, King A, Girling JE. Cyclic processes in the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix: pathways and perturbations. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad012. [PMID: 37225518 PMCID: PMC10208902 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This review leads the 2023 Call for Papers in MHR: 'Cyclical function of the female reproductive tract' and will outline the complex and fascinating changes that take place in the reproductive tract during the menstrual cycle. We will also explore associated reproductive tract abnormalities that impact or are impacted by the menstrual cycle. Between menarche and menopause, women and people who menstruate living in high-income countries can expect to experience ∼450 menstrual cycles. The primary function of the menstrual cycle is to prepare the reproductive system for pregnancy in the event of fertilization. In the absence of pregnancy, ovarian hormone levels fall, triggering the end of the menstrual cycle and onset of menstruation. We have chosen to exclude the ovaries and focus on the other structures that make up the reproductive tract: uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix, which also functionally change in response to fluctuations in ovarian hormone production across the menstrual cycle. This inaugural paper for the 2023 MHR special collection will discuss our current understanding of the normal physiological processes involved in uterine cyclicity (limited specifically to the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix) in humans, and other mammals where relevant. We will emphasize where knowledge gaps exist and highlight the impact that reproductive tract and uterine cycle perturbations have on health and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Holdsworth-Carson
- Julia Argyrou Endometriosis Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ellen Menkhorst
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A Maybin
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anna King
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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7
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Gonçalves-Henriques M, de Pinho A, Freixo M, Liz-Coelho M, Castro F, Ceschin N, Brandão P. Ulipristal Acetate in Adenomyosis. Gynecol Minim Invasive Ther 2022; 11:198-202. [PMID: 36660320 PMCID: PMC9844051 DOI: 10.4103/gmit.gmit_95_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenomyosis is defined as the invasion of the basal endometrium (stroma and glands) into the underlying myometrium. It may lead to abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), pelvic pain, and infertility. The definitive treatment is hysterectomy. Some conservative measures have been used in patients willing to procreate. Ulipristal acetate is a selective progesterone receptor modulator used to treat AUB caused by leiomyomas. This is a systematic review on the use of ulipristal to treat adenomyosis. Eight eligible articles were retrieved from PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Library. Only one randomized clinical trial was published until date concerning this matter. It seems that ulipristal acetate induces partial or complete remission of AUB caused by adenomyosis, but the evidence concerning its effect on pelvic pain and the radiologic findings of the disease is conflicting. Nevertheless, given the paucity of data, it is still preliminary to draw any conclusion about the subject.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Gonçalves-Henriques
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando da Fonseca, Amadora, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - António de Pinho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, Penafiel, Portugal,Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marília Freixo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, Penafiel, Portugal
| | - Maria Liz-Coelho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, Penafiel, Portugal
| | - Fabiana Castro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, Penafiel, Portugal
| | - Nathan Ceschin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad - IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain,Feliccita Fertility Clinics, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Pedro Brandão
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad - IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain,Address for correspondence: Dr. Pedro Brandão, Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Plaza de la Policia Local 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain. E-mail:
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8
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A Call-to-Action for Clinicians to Implement Evidence-Based Best Practices When Caring for Women with Uterine Fibroids. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:1188-1196. [PMID: 35178678 PMCID: PMC8853611 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00877-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are common benign tumors that occur in up to 80% of women. Approximately half of the women affected experience considerable physical, psychological, and economic burdens and impact on quality of life due to symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility. Several medical and surgical options are available to treat uterine fibroids; however, healthcare providers may benefit from practical guidance in the development of individualized treatment plans based on a personalized approach. Medical treatments and minimally invasive procedures are generally preferred by most patients before considering more invasive, higher risk surgical interventions. In general, patient-centered, uterine-preserving procedures may be prioritized based on the patient’s goals and the clinical scenario. Occasionally, hysterectomy may be the preferred treatment option for some patients who require definitive treatment. This call-to-action highlights recent challenges to patient care, including radical shifts in physician–patient interactions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and recent changes to evidence-based, clinically approved therapies. This report also reviews contemporary recommendations for women’s health providers in the diagnosis and medical and surgical management of uterine fibroids. This call-to-action aims to empower healthcare providers to optimize the quality of care for women with uterine fibroids utilizing the best available evidence and best practices.
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9
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Middelkoop MA, de Lange ME, Clark TJ, Mol BWJ, Bet PM, Huirne JAF, Hehenkamp WJK. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:884-894. [PMID: 35143669 PMCID: PMC9071218 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ulipristal acetate (UPA) is a medical treatment for uterine fibroids and was authorized for surgical pre-treatment in 2012 after the conduct of the PEARL I and II randomized controlled trials and for intermittent treatment after the observational PEARL III and IV trials. However, UPA came into disrepute due to its temporary suspension in 2017 and 2020 because of an apparent association with liver injury. This clinical opinion paper aims to review the process of marketing authorization and implementation of UPA, in order to provide all involved stakeholders with recommendations for the introduction of future drugs. Before marketing authorization, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) states that Phase III registration trials should evaluate relevant outcomes in a representative population, while comparing to gold-standard treatment. This review shows that the representativeness of the study populations in all PEARL trials was limited, surgical outcomes were not evaluated and intermittent treatment was assessed without comparative groups. Implementation into clinical practice was extensive, with 900 000 prescribed treatment cycles in 5 years in Europe and Canada combined. Extremely high costs are involved in developing and evaluating pre-marketing studies in new drugs, influencing trial design and relevance of chosen outcomes, thereby impeding clinical applicability. It is vitally important that the marketing implementation after authorization is regulated in such way that necessary evidence is generated before widespread prescription of a new drug. All stakeholders, from pharmaceutical companies to authorizing bodies, governmental funding bodies and medical professionals should be aware of their role and take responsibility for their part in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-An Middelkoop
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence address. Amsterdam UMC, Location de Boelelaan, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Tel: +31-20-444-4444; E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0847-2566
| | - Maria E de Lange
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - T Justin Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ben Willem J Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Aberdeen Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Pierre M Bet
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Judith A F Huirne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter J K Hehenkamp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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10
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Dinis-Oliveira RJ. Pharmacokinetics, toxicological and clinical aspects of ulipristal acetate: insights into the mechanisms implicated in the hepatic toxicity. Drug Metab Rev 2021; 53:375-383. [PMID: 33905271 DOI: 10.1080/03602532.2021.1917599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ulipristal acetate is a drug used as emergency contraceptive (30 mg) and for the treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of uterine myomas (5 mg). After commercialization, and although the exact number is unknown, serious cases implying ulipristal acetate 5 mg as a contributing factor of liver injury, some leading to transplantation, were reported. These cases prompted to a restrict use of the drug in January 2021 by the European Medicines Agency. This work aimed to fully review pharmacokinetic aspects, namely focusing in the ulipristal acetate metabolism and other hypothetical toxicological underlying mechanisms that may predispose to drug-induced liver injury (DILI). The high lipophilicity, the extensive hepatic metabolism, the long half-life of the drug and of its major active metabolite, the long-term course of treatment, and possibility due to the formation of epoxide reactive may be contributing factors. Scientific results also points evidence to consider monitorization of liver function during ulipristal acetate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Jorge Dinis-Oliveira
- IINFACTS - Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies, Department of Sciences, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Advanced Polytechnic and University Cooperative (CESPU), CRL, Gandra, Portugal.,Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Middelkoop MA, Bet PM, Drenth JPH, Huirne JAF, Hehenkamp WJK. Risk-efficacy balance of ulipristal acetate compared to surgical alternatives. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 87:2685-2697. [PMID: 33341097 PMCID: PMC8359338 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims Uterine fibroids are benign tumours that cause various complaints. These complaints may significantly compromise quality of life, necessitating a clinical intervention in 25–50% of the affected women. Hysterectomy, myomectomy or embolization may offer symptomatic relief, but are costly, include a recovery period, can cause serious side‐effects, sometimes fail to treat symptoms completely and are not always desired by patients. Ulipristal is a conservative long‐term treatment that has a fibroid‐volume decreasing effect, acceptable side‐effects while preserving fertility and may be an alternative to surgical alternatives. Currently, ulipristal is investigated by the European Medicine Agency and suspended from marketing authorization because it may cause drug‐induced liver injury (DILI). However, many drugs can cause severe DILI and prospective studies estimate 14–19 DILI cases/100 000 people. Methods This overview will discuss the risk–benefit balance between ulipristal and DILI, describe the safety–efficacy balance of ulipristal and its alternative treatments and the arguments that led to the suspension of its marketing authorization. Results Ulipristal may be associated with DILI resulting in a risk of severe liver injury in 1.5:100 000 patients and fatal liver injury in 0.1:100 000 patients. This risk needs to be weighed against the higher mortality risk of >1:1000 and higher incidence of severe complications after surgery. Conclusion The DILI risk of ulipristal is considerably lower than that of other medicines that are not suspended, nor need additional safety measures. When evaluating drugs and drug safety, risks that apply to the alternative nonpharmacological treatment options should be taken into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-An Middelkoop
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pierre M Bet
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost P H Drenth
- Department of Gastroenterology, Radboud UMC, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Judith A F Huirne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter J K Hehenkamp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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