Different dosing intervals of mifepristone‐misoprostol for second‐trimester termination of pregnancy: A meta‐analysis and systematic review

Abstract

Objective To compare 1‐ and 2‐day drug administration interval between mifepristone and misoprostol for second‐trimester pregnancy termination and provide evidence‐based recommendations. Methods Search strategy: the search was performed in Pubmed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library for the relevant published studies from their establishment to March 2020. Selection criteria: randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing 1‐ and 2‐day time interval of mifepristone‐misoprostol for termination of pregnancy during second‐trimester pregnancy were considered. Data were processed using Revman 5.3 software. Results Meta‐analyses of three RCTs showed no significant difference was reported in the induction‐to‐abortion time and successful abortion rate between 1‐ and 2‐day mifepristone and misoprostol intervals. Statistical difference was not identified in the induction‐to‐abortion time between the two drug administration intervals in nulliparous or parous women. Conclusions Both 1‐ and 2‐day dosing intervals between mifepristone and misoprostol are suitable for clinical use for second‐trimester medical termination of pregnancy.