Discovery of surgery-free treatment for ectopic pregnancy

Monash University

Australian and Scottish researchers have discovered a promising, surgery-free treatment for the sometimes fatal condition of ectopic pregnancy.

Researchers conducted clinical trials involving 12 women suffering ectopic pregnancies who were treated with the drugs methotrexate – that is currently being used in lesser cases of ectopic pregnancy – and gefitinib – used to treat lung cancer by blocking a cell survival signal.

They found ectopic pregnancies were cured 34% faster and more effectively by using the two drugs compared with the use of methotrexate alone.

Ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo embeds in the fallopian tube rather than the uterus, affects 1% to 2% of all pregnancies and can never result in a successful, healthy outcome. The new discovery can lead to a reduction in the need for surgery to remove the affected fallopian tube and salvage the women’s future ability to conceive.